Ed Psych Close-Up: Exploring the Use of PhotoVoice Pedagogy to Foster Transformative Learning Among Preservice Teachers

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: Transformative Pedagogy: Disrupting Comfort and Advancing Equity in the Teacher Education Classroom

Abstract

This study explored the potential of using photovoice to support transformative learning among pre-service teachers. Photovoice is an art-based pedagogy that utilizes photography to engage learners with the process of critical reflection. A photovoice activity was implemented throughout the duration of a teacher preparation course. Four participants were interviewed to explore their experience with photovoice. Thematic content analysis of the interviews uncovered four major themes among their experiences: Empowerment, Relevance, Critical Reflection, and Transformation. Participants believed the photovoice activity empowered them to explore new ways of learning, helped them see the relevance of the content in their everyday lives, fostered critical reflection on their pedagogical beliefs, and ultimately resulted in transformation of their perceptions, beliefs, and understandings.

Authors

• Maaly Younis, University of Northern Colorado

• Cassendra M. Bergstrom, University of Northern Colorado

• Kevin J. Pugh, University of Northern Colorado