Photovoice as Pedagogy in a Pacific Setting: Exploring Complexity in Cook Islands Food Environments With Adolescent Learners.

Abstract

Background: Photovoice has potential as a pedagogical tool to support student exploration of health-related issues. However, its application in school-based health education is under-represented.

Methods: This article details learning outcomes and teacher perspectives from the codesign, evaluation, and scale-up of a photovoice learning module in Cook Islands schools (n = 7, Years 5-10). Objectives were to support awareness and understanding of food environments. The research sits within the Pacific Science for Health Literacy Project, a 12-year partnership between the Cook Islands Ministry of Education, Te Marae Ora Cook Islands Ministry of Health, and the University of Auckland, targeting improved community health. Data were drawn from interviews with teachers and education leaders (n = 19), workshop and meeting notes, teacher observations, and student photovoice presentations.

Results: Findings revealed Photovoice was an effective tool supporting students to explore food environments, extending their understanding of complex factors influencing health. Photovoice proved beneficial for diverse learners and learner styles, supporting their success in conducting health-science investigations. Photovoice stimulated school-to-home conversations about food environments affecting health. Teachers reported that students acted on learning by making healthy choices. However, they highlighted challenges associated with achieving sustained behavior change.

Implications for school health policy, practice, and equity: Professional development and resources are required for teachers to effectively employ Photovoice approaches. Future research should explore the application of Photovoice as a strategy to enhance student decision making toward long-term healthy behavior change.

Conclusions: This study highlights the transformative impacts of Photovoice as a pedagogical tool.