Evaluation of a Photovoice Pilot Project for School Safety in South Africa

Abstract

This field report summarizes a process evaluation of a Photovoice pilot project, targeting school safety in a public high school in an economically disadvantaged, urban community in Cape Town, South Africa. To measure the success of the program, we use outcomes from Catalani and Minkler’s Photovoice impact model, including (i) improved understanding of community needs and assets, (ii) greater individual empowerment, and (iii) action and advocacy to affect policy. The evaluation shows that Photovoice can engage students to think critically about their environment, and can raise awareness of school safety issues among teachers, parents, police officers, and community members. Students identified several problems in the school environment including bullying, gangsterism, and theft. The extent to which the Photovoice project will lead to concrete long-term changes in the school remains unclear.