Teaching Macro Practice Through Service Learning Using Participatory Photography

Abstract

This article describes a participatory photography project that was piloted as a service-learning strategy to build knowledge of macro practice concepts, clarify linkages between micro and macro practice roles, and facilitate macro practice skill development. The class partnered with a county maternal and child health program serving first-time mothers of low-income. Students identified child care, education, and housing as primary concerns in their analysis of the participants' photos and narratives. Students connected the participants' voices to macro concerns through innovative program and policy recommendations. Considerations for future service-learning efforts using participatory photography are discussed.

Keywords:

• Service learning
• participatory photography
• social work education

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Erratum

Many thanks to Jeanne Smart, R.N., M.S.N., Prenatal Services Coordinator, Maternal, Child and Adolescent Health Programs, Los Angeles County Department of Public Health and to the nurses, participants, and students who participated in the “Since My Pregnancy” project. Thank you to the journal's reviewers for the helpful comments provided on an earlier draft.