Mildred E. John
University of Calabar, Nigeria
Title: Photovoice as a student-centred teaching method for graduate nursing students in Calabar, Nigeria
Biography
Biography: Mildred E. John
Abstract
Documentary/interactive photography (photovoice) has been used for community action research, but use in the nursing classroom is limited. When used appropriately photovoice can effectively engage students and enhance learning. The study aimed at assessing the acquisition of skills in critical thinking, communication, self-directed learning, and problem-based learning through the use of photovoice in teaching. Quasi-experimental, pre-test/post test design was used. Photovoice was used to teach a course on health systems management to 20 postgraduate students. Ethical clearance was obtained from University of Calabar Research Ethics Committee. Students were asked to take pictures that support both the positive and negative aspects of assigned topics. Pictures were combined with oral narratives to share information using power point slides. Data were collected using a validated assessment tool with 40 items. Data analysis was on SPSS 18.0 for descriptive and inferential statistics. Results showed that photovoice methodology helped students develop critical thinking skills (p = 0.01), promoted self-directed learning (p = 0.001), strengthened communication skills (p = 0.01) and ensured problem-based learning (p = 0.02). Participants reported empowerment of students for more effective involvement and participation in the teaching-learning process (100%); creation of powerful visual facts of the topics (95.0%), effective engagement of students (90.0%), enhanced appreciation of different points of view (85.0%). Challenges identified were the cost in time and finances to produce pictures that fully depict the topics. It is concluded that photovoice enhances engagement of students and increases learning, and could be an effective instructional method in nursing education