Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
This lecture explores how participatory action research with youth can transform our understanding and promotion of school engagement and wellbeing. Rather than studying students as subjects, this community-engaged approach positions young people as co-researchers who investigate their own experiences and develop solutions alongside educators and families. Drawing from current partnered research with SF Unified School District to strengthen student attendance and prevent chronic absenteeism, we'll examine how diverse forms of research evidence including administrative data, youth-led research, interviews, observations, and art can inform policies and practices. The talk will highlight how empowering students as researchers not only strengthens attendance but also promotes youth wellbeing, civic engagement, and empowerment that extends far beyond the classroom.
This lecture explores how participatory action research with youth can transform our understanding and promotion of school engagement and wellbeing. Rather than studying students as subjects, this community-engaged approach positions young people as co-researchers who investigate their own experiences and develop solutions alongside educators and families. Drawing from current partnered research with SF Unified School District to strengthen student attendance and prevent chronic absenteeism, we'll examine how diverse forms of research evidence including administrative data, youth-led research, interviews, observations, and art can inform policies and practices. The talk will highlight how empowering students as researchers not only strengthens attendance but also promotes youth wellbeing, civic engagement, and empowerment that extends far beyond the classroom.
