A photovoice analysis of experiences during a short-term study abroad trip to Belize
Location
Culture and Qualitative Research (Session 3 Breakouts)
Proposal Track
Research Project
Session Format
Presentation
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to use Photovoice to examine meaningful experiences and learning for Education and Health and Community Wellness students (n = 9) on the short-term study abroad trip to Belize. The study used Photovoice and journal reflections as a way to learn about the perceptions of the participants and gain deeper understanding of their experiences while on a short-term study abroad trip. Seven main themes emerged from the photographs chosen by participants and corresponding reflections: (1) teaching; (2) gratitude; (3) poverty; (4) community; (5) education; (6) cultural pride; and (7) environment. Conclusions: The results are consistent with previous Photovoice research and quantitative research with short- and long-term study abroad trips. Overall, this study provides insight into perceptions of learning experiences from the perspective of rural, undergraduate college students studying abroad in a novel country and culture.
Keywords
culture, photovoice, qualitative, university
Professional Bio
Duke Biber joined the Department of Sport Management, Wellness, and Physical education at the University of West Georgia in 2018. Dr. Biber has his Doctoral degree in exercise psychology from Georgia State University and Master’s degree in sport psychology from Georgia Southern University. His research investigates the impact of social-emotional wellness and learning on health behavior initiation and adherence. This includes understanding the effect of mindfulness, optimism, gratitude, and self-compassion on behaviors such as physical activity, sleep, suicidal tendencies, stress management, and drug abuse. Dr. Biber teaches psychology of exercise, mental and emotional wellness, health coaching, and research methods.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Biber, Duke and Brandenburg, Gina, "A photovoice analysis of experiences during a short-term study abroad trip to Belize" (2020). Georgia Educational Research Association Conference. 43.
https://digitalcommons.georgiasouthern.edu/gera/2020/2020/43
A photovoice analysis of experiences during a short-term study abroad trip to Belize
Culture and Qualitative Research (Session 3 Breakouts)
The purpose of this study was to use Photovoice to examine meaningful experiences and learning for Education and Health and Community Wellness students (n = 9) on the short-term study abroad trip to Belize. The study used Photovoice and journal reflections as a way to learn about the perceptions of the participants and gain deeper understanding of their experiences while on a short-term study abroad trip. Seven main themes emerged from the photographs chosen by participants and corresponding reflections: (1) teaching; (2) gratitude; (3) poverty; (4) community; (5) education; (6) cultural pride; and (7) environment. Conclusions: The results are consistent with previous Photovoice research and quantitative research with short- and long-term study abroad trips. Overall, this study provides insight into perceptions of learning experiences from the perspective of rural, undergraduate college students studying abroad in a novel country and culture.
