Abstract
This paper explores how ‘the image’ and visual methodologies, specifically photo-elicitation, can be used to understand the current state of post-conflict societies and ongoing peace processes. It is essential to engage with the local population in gaining a holistic understanding of post-conflict peacebuilding processes. One way to do this is through interviews. Photo-elicitation is an interviewing approach where the researcher inserts photographs or other visual mediums into the interview process. In a variation from the traditional verbal-only interview technique, photo-elicitation helps trigger memories, stimulates deeper reflection, produces more natural, rich and detailed responses, reduces power dynamics, and enables researchers to ‘better see-through participants’ eyes.’ This method offers direct insight into the local conditions and socio-political elements of post-conflict societies. This paper explores this technique using a four year study in Northern Ireland where photographs of artefactual materials in public space were used in interviews to test the technique.
Presenters
Serena ClarkPostdoctoral Research Fellow, ALL Institute, Maynooth University, Dublin, Ireland
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
KEYWORDS
Photo-elicitation, Northern Ireland, Post-conflict, Peace Processes, Peacebuilding, Visual Methods
