Participatory Research Approaches in Educational Psychology Training and Practice

This article has two aims; to introduce participatory research approaches with children and young people, and to consider such approaches within Educational Psychology training, practice and research. A range of ways of conceptualising and approaching participatory research are explored. Models applied to researching with children and young people specifically are then explained. A critical analysis of participatory research methods is offered, outlining power-related criticisms, ethical considerations and practical issues. The focus then turns to Educational Psychology, looking at applications of such approaches in researching with children and young people, the group that EPs work with predominantly. It is proposed that participatory research methods are highly relevant to the profession, both in training of educational psychologists (EPs) and for practising psychologists. This is set in the context of the Doctorate in Educational and Child Psychology at the University of East London. It is suggested that Educational Psychology research should take an increasingly participatory focus.