Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

Program Name/Specialization

Community Psychology

Faculty/School

Faculty of Science

First Advisor

Dr. Colleen Loomis

Advisor Role

Supervisor

Second Advisor

Dr. Simon Coulombe

Advisor Role

Internal Committee Member

Third Advisor

Dr. Kristiina Montero

Advisor Role

Internal Committee Member

Abstract

Researchers have documented many benefits of youth engagement, however there is a need for more systematic research on participation in different contexts. This study has investigated how a youth-adult partnership addressed racism within a high school, as well as the experiences of participants during this process. This project was a case study of a school-based, youth-adult partnership consisting of eight (N = 8) participants. Five participants were students in Grades 11 and 12, two were school/school board staff, and one was the author; I directly participated in the partnership as a facilitator. Qualitative data were collected through field notes, interviews and focus groups, and were analyzed using NVivo 11. Findings highlight the benefits of meaningful engagement for the participants, ideal partnership structures and participant roles, as well as the importance of having a dedicated facilitator with specific qualities identified by participants. Based on these findings, best practices are proposed for conducting youth-adult partnerships in school settings.

Convocation Year

2019

Convocation Season

Spring

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