This is a collaboration between my Introduction to Photography class and Dr. Kunze’s Introduction to Psychology class.
This study investigates PhotoVoice as a pedagogical method for cross-disciplinary course projects between photography and psychology. Over six weeks, 20 undergraduate students from one introductory psychology course and one photography course worked in cross-discipline pairs to explore and capture evidence of gender constructs through photography. The case study aimed to challenge traditional gender roles and enhance students' discipline-specific technical and transferable skills.
Students conducted background knowledge research, collaborative photo walks, and a photo critique to document observations and reflections. Quantitative analysis showed significant shifts in perceptions of male gender roles, and qualitative analysis of documents and discussions revealed the focus of students’ projects and the benefits and challenges of interdisciplinary collaborations. Collaborations bridging art and science offer unique opportunities to empower student narratives and allow them to apply technical skills to further understand and empathize with social issues.
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Andrea Kunze for her invaluable support, guidance, and expertise throughout this project. Her mastery of educational psychology has been instrumental in shaping our approach and enriching the collaboration between our classes. Additionally, I am grateful to the Society for the Psychological Study of Social Issues for their encouragement and resources, which have significantly contributed to the success of this initiative. Their commitment to fostering interdisciplinary projects has provided us with a robust framework for exploring the intersection of photography and psychology.
Below is a selection of contact sheets from photography students.