Embedding research methods across the Lifelong Learning Centre

Embedding participatory research methods across the Lifelong Learning Centre

Joanne Huett, supervised by Vivienne Griggs and Ryan Wilkinson

About the student researcher

I'm Jo Huett and I recently graduated from BA Professional Studies; an interdisciplinary degree delivered by the Lifelong Learning Centre specifically aimed at mature students. Returning to study as an older mature student increased my awareness of the different life experiences of mature or under-represented students, the challenges they face and the value they bring. This demonstrated the importance of amplifying the voice of under-represented students and this was further reinforced by my participation in a LITE research project in which under-represented students co-created a reverse mentoring scheme for academic personal tutors (see placements completed in 2022: Sophia Lambert supervised by Rachael O’Connor). Student voice was central to this project, and this sparked my interest in collaborative and inclusive research methods, so I am very happy to be researching the value of Participatory Research to the Lifelong Learning Centre.

Project overview

This project researches and evaluates the effective use of Participatory Research (PR) methods in Higher Education (HE), particularly where used with diverse student groups from underrepresented backgrounds. The principles of PR are that studies should treat participants as equals rather than subjects, and their knowledge and experience regarded as of equal value as the researchers' academic and research skills. Following a familiarisation process and brief literature review defining PR, a scoping review will be conducted to assess how PR research is currently being used in HE, with which demographics, and in what specific areas of work in HE, eg students as partners, curriculum design, or pedagogy and scholarship. The results will be mapped against participatory research methods and expertise within the Lifelong Learning Centre.  The planned output is an academic paper summarising our results and incorporating recommendations and suggestions for best practice in PR with diverse student cohorts. By disseminating this information, participatory research will be further embedded in the pedagogy of the LLC and its benefits to participants, and researchers will be enhanced in future research projects.

If you are interested in finding out about the project findings, please contact the project supervisor.