Quiet voices: using creative research methods to increase participation and the voice of learners often overlooked

Gaining the perspective of pupils, students, and adults on their experiences of school, college and university and other forms of provision is now considered essential, both ethically and logically to design, modify and create effective policy and practice. Ways of obtaining these views are still in their infancy though and much work needs to be done, not least with individuals whom providers find it hard to engage and communicate with effectively. In this small scale study, Helen Evans, works collaboratively with two autistic students to elicit the views of eight fellow learners at a specialist Further Education College. Walking maps, photo elicitation and other creative research methods are developed and data collected on the type of support given and the benefits of the project to all concerned. The Editor would welcome other papers that give practical ideas on how the voice of those who often remain silent can be heard and acted upon.