Introduction to Case Study 4

The authors used a unique data collection method, the photo voice technique, which is often used with the intent of a social change to respond to the research questions in this case study. Data was collected from the “resident experts” in three parts: photographs, in-depth group discussion, and collaborative analysis of 20 Black/African American middle school students guided by faculty mentors and pre-licensure nursing students as they conducted a community assessment of heart health. The authors found that social and environmental factors were significant causes of heart disease and the dangers that go along with it. To comprehend the links between the social environment and heart health, the authors determined that addressing social determinants of health was crucial. The capacity of this study highlights healthy practices and educates populations in harm’s way. This unique population included middle school students who were members of an organization that promotes social change and provides opportunities for youth from under sourced communities. And the application of participatory action research enhanced their collaborations to understand the issue of one of many health factors, such as heart disease while paving the way to take action to bring about social change. The researchers’ method of data analysis is exemplary, using the acronym SHOWED, which stands for See, Happening, cOmmunity, Why, Educate, and Do. This type of analysis can be earmarked for various community participatory action research projects that recognize and include individuals whose shared experiences contribute to the understanding and appreciating health and environmental issues.