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Published on: July 31, 2017
Involving children in research
1University of Hertfordshire, Hatfield.
Insights
Involving children and young people in research is crucial when findings impact them. Utilizing engaging methods like visual arts and reference groups ensures their valuable contributions and addresses potential challenges effectively.
Area of Science:
- Child and Youth Participation in Research
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Community-Based Participatory Research
Background:
- Children and young people possess unique perspectives crucial for research affecting them.
- Traditional research methods may not adequately capture the experiences and needs of young participants.
- Engaging youth ensures research relevance and ethical considerations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the importance of involving children and young people in research.
- To explore effective methods for facilitating youth engagement in research.
- To address challenges and promote successful youth participation.
Main Methods:
- Utilizing visual methods such as drawing, collage, and photography for expression.
- Establishing reference groups of children and young people.
- Involving youth in all research stages: design, materials, consent, and methods.
Main Results:
- Visual methods empower children and young people to express emotions and opinions effectively.
- Youth reference groups provide essential input for research appropriateness and ethical conduct.
- Active involvement leads to a knowledge base reflecting participants' needs.
Conclusions:
- Involving children and young people in research is vital for impactful and relevant findings.
- Visual and participatory methods are key to overcoming engagement barriers.
- Careful planning can surmount challenges, ensuring successful and ethical youth involvement in research.
Abstract:
Children and young people should be involved in the research process when the findings could affect them. It is important to use research tools that will facilitate their engagement as they can offer valuable contributions that generate a knowledge base that is a unique reflection of their needs. Visual methods such as drawing, collage and photography can help them to express emotions and opinions. Reference groups of children and young people can inform every stage of the research process, ensuring appropriateness of information materials, consent forms and methods. There are challenges associated with the involvement of children and young people in the research process, but with careful planning, these are surmountable.
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