Using Photovoice to Examine Student Learning in Graduate Health Administration: A Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) Study

Abstract

This pilot study explores the use of photovoice as an experiential learning (EL) tool in graduate health administration education, focusing on concepts related to the Social Determinants of Health (SDOH). Photovoice, a methodology rooted in participatory action research (PAR), is recognized as an active learning approach that promotes deeper insights and shifts in understanding. The project engaged 51 graduate students across 3 in-person health administration courses in a 6-week assignment involving original photography and a descriptive narrative (up to 250 words) to reflect on observed SDOH in their communities. Data were collected via the graded student assignments and a subsequent open-ended reflection survey. Employing a Scholarship of Teaching and Learning (SoTL) approach, the systematic analysis of the qualitative data revealed four major themes: (1). Recognizing Social Determinants of Health (SDOH) and Societal Impact; (2). Connecting Personal Experience to Professional Identity; (3). Building Systems Thinking and Applied Insight; and (4). Reimagining Learning through Experiential Reflection. These findings demonstrate how integrating participatory and experiential pedagogies cultivates purposeful reflection, applied problem-solving, and professional competencies crucial for future health promotion leaders. The study fulfills the goal of SoTL scholarship by disseminating findings to refine course design and enhance student understanding of complex health inequities.