The advantages of visual methods in exploring hidden subjectivities in post-compulsory education

ABSTRACT

This article exemplifies the advantages that researchers have if they apply visual methods and in particular photo-elicitation to qualitative research. The research context is post-compulsory education with the field of study being a new vocational degree programme, and the theoretical content of the article draws on the work of Goffman, alongside theories of literacy as social practice. It is interesting that the policy documents that are framing new vocational degrees are texts written in particular ways and that in the UK these texts are informed by political and economic agendas. However, the texts that have given rise to new vocational degree programmes do not appear to necessarily align with the rich subjective practices which are occurring within this form of post-compulsory education. The research that is presented in this article from selected students and academics who are working on a particular vocational degree reveals profound interpretations of the purpose of new vocational degrees. The imaginative and creative images that are captured by the application of photo-elicitation to this study reveal a fascinating interplay between the policy texts and the subjective interpretations of the purpose of post-compulsory education.

KEYWORDS:

• New vocational degrees
• visual methods
• photo elicitation
• literacy as social practice

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

The research has been funded by Teesside University’s University Research Fund.

Notes on contributors

Ewan Ingleby

Dr Ewan Ingleby is based in the University’s education department. Ewan is the postgraduate tutor for the school of social sciences humanities and law.

Dr Gary Currie is involved in the delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate crime scene science and forensic programmes. Prior to joining Teesside University, Gary was the Head of National Crime Scene Investigator Training with the College of Policing.

Ryan Williams is studying a PhD in Education, investigating how social media platforms can be used as a classroom resource. He was awarded a First Class Honours from Teesside University in 2014.