@techreport{GoettertCurrieBackaetal.2023, type = {Working Paper}, author = {G{\"o}ttert, Thomas and Currie, Bianca and Backa, Valentin and Feldenz, Laura and Klaver, Michael and Markides, Yasmin and Munting, Enya and Rolfes, Oliver}, title = {Framing growth: Exploring the transformative power of photography for students}, doi = {10.57741/opus4-792}, url = {http://nbn-resolving.de/urn:nbn:de:kobv:eb1-opus-7925}, pages = {79}, year = {2023}, abstract = {This discussion paper aims to shed light on the benefits and value of photography from a student perspective. The starting point and central element of this paper are reflections from selected students representing the field of environmental sciences. Students contribute as co authors of this paper. The student co authors were asked by the lead authors to share their experiences with photography. The lead authors analysed these reflections using a grounded theory approach. On this basis, we were able to identify four key areas that are of particular importance: 1) learning, 2) skills development, 3) communication, and 4) personal development. In addition we considered the limitations and challenges in the use of photography for students, ethical aspects to be considered when using photography in the context of science and education and student advice for educators. The lead authors' interpretation and enrichment of the student reflections led to interesting trains of thought, which are brought to light in our discussion. Our paper highlights the importance of viewing the subject of photography from diverse perspectives. By doing so, various insight and outlier perspectives emerged that were not expected. The student experiences underline the importance of the close connection between learning and emotional recall. In particular, the topic of personal development and the aspect of joy and fun in the context of photography were highlighted. It also became clear that the students' point of view emphasized the process of taking photographs and sometimes even value this process more than t he end result the actual photo. Finally, we also addressed our ethnic, cultural, and disciplinary bias and mentioned the digital divide. To sum up, the integration of technology and active participation through photography not only enriches education but also empowers students with invaluable skills that extend beyond the classroom, the lab or the field. By immersing students in visual and experiential learning, this paper advocates for a holistic approach that fosters deeper comprehension, heightened curiosity, and lifelong learning.}, language = {en} }