Mapping participatory research tools for ethical and inclusive research with children
Understanding the current landscape of resources to support children’s participation in research and data collection
Our Vision
Children’s participation is the informed and willing involvement of children in any matter concerning them directly or indirectly. For meaningful participation to take place, organisations must create opportunities for children to express their views, and assist children to have their ideas seen, heard and valued by decision-makers. They must also allow children to see the outcomes of their own involvement. To promote ethical and meaningful participation of children in research, the Young and Resilient team built a catalogue of tools to support researchers working with diverse children, across different models of participation (from consultative, collaborative and child-led), and across research stages (from planning, conducting and evaluating).
What we did
To build the catalogue, we conducted an environmental scan of participatory research resources, and mapped these against key inclusion criteria, focusing on tools that supported equity and inclusion. After the mapping exercise, we analysed gaps and made recommendations for the project partner to consider in their research processes.
What impact will this research have?
The catalogue will support researchers who are working with children in diverse settings to develop appropriate and ethical approaches to engage children in meaningful research, drawing on tried and tested tools.
Outputs
Report - Involving Children in Research and Data Collection, A Gap Analysis, March 2025.
Outcomes
- Catalogue of participatory research tools to support ethical and meaningful child participation.
- Identification of gaps to support participatory research with diverse children.
Collaboration team
External collaborators/Partners
Save the Children
Funding
Save the Children International.
Streams
Realising Youth Participation and Engagement.
Period
August 2023 – February 2024
Contact: If you would like to get in contact with the team, please email Louisa at l.welland@westernsdney.edu.au