Use of Photovoice in Processing Race-Based Topics in a Multicultural Counseling Course

ABSTRACT

This phenomenological study assessed master-level students’ experiences of using photovoice, a creative learning activity, in a race-based multicultural counseling course. Students were asked to engage in weekly written reflections regarding a course-related photographic image, with the goal of more deeply processing cognitive and affective reactions to the course. Data analyzed included focus groups, student written responses, and photos. Findings indicated use of photovoice as a means for processing cognitions, which allowed students to deepen learning by extending a racialized lens outside of the classroom. Students also indicated use of the tool to process emotional reactions at various stages of the course, allowing learners to creatively and visually express feelings as they surfaced.

KEYWORDS:

• Counselor education
• creative pedagogy
• creativity in counseling
• experiential activities
• multicultural counseling
• photovoice
• qualitative research
• race
• reflective practitioner
• social justice

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Tina R. Paone

Tina R. Paone is an Associate Professor in the Department of Educational Counseling & Leadership at Monmouth University.

Krista M. Malott

Krista M. Malott is an Associate Professor and Graduate Program Director in the Department of Education & Counseling at Villanova University.

Nicole Pulliam

Nicole Pulliam is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Educational Counseling & Leadership at Monmouth University.

Jiabao Gao

Jiabao Gao is a counselor at Bayview Associates, South Shore Mental Health.