Participatory Action Research and Knowledge Dissemination in Virtual Photovoice: Methodological Insights

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Public Health
• Qualitative Research

Background:

• Virtual photovoice methods are expanding, yet their integration with participatory action research (PAR) and knowledge dissemination (KD) components of traditional photovoice require further understanding.
• This study addresses the need to detail the PAR and KD processes within a virtual photovoice project focused on men's perspectives on equitable intimate partner relationships.

Purpose of the Study:

• To detail the adaptation and advancement of PAR and KD components in a virtual photovoice study.
• To offer methodological lessons for researchers utilizing virtual photovoice, particularly post-COVID-19.
• To examine men's experiences and perspectives on equitable intimate partner relationships through a virtual photovoice lens.

Main Methods:

• Adapted established analytics for categorizing and selecting representative photographs (n=714) from participant submissions, guided by PAR principles.
• Employed virtual focus group polls (VFGPs) via Zoom to enable collective decision-making and discussion of selected photographs, exploring democratization and cultural nuances.
• Documented the processes, practices, and products of knowledge dissemination through online photovoice exhibitions, assessing benefits and challenges.

Main Results:

• Theme 1: Established a systematic process for selecting representative photographs and accompanying narratives, aligning with PAR principles.
• Theme 2: Virtual focus group polls democratized participation but highlighted potential cultural differences among geographically dispersed men.
• Theme 3: Online exhibitions showed potential for broad reach but emphasized the critical role of marketing, media, and interactivity for engagement and intervention refinement.

Conclusions:

• Virtual photovoice offers a viable method for conducting PAR and KD, requiring specific adaptations for virtual environments.
• Methodological lessons learned are crucial for optimizing virtual photovoice for future research, especially in e-health interventions.
• The study provides practical insights into managing virtual data collection and dissemination, enhancing the utility of photovoice in diverse settings.