Self-Representation in the Process and

Product: Some Considerations from the use of

interactive DVD technologies

Mike Evans, Stephen Foster, Jon Corbett, Joanne Gervais and Raquel Mann

Participation…

“Use of the term participation has become virtually mandatory in development

(including research) projects, programmes and policies.”

(Cornwall et al., 2001 p. 1).

Participation…• Yet there exist variable levels

in implementation

Participation…

•These gradations are often conceptualized using a ladder metaphor (e.g. Arnstein)

Participation…

The ‘Ebb and Flow’ of participatory

influence:

• The spectrum of participatory influence in any project is never stagnant, nor the agency/power of participants fixed…

Participation…

… but is continuously shifting through time

Participation…

Tensions

•conflicting agendas and differential power relations

•differing aesthetic praxis (in/of process and product) arises out of varying intentions/expectations

Participation…

One tension emerges in the negotiation of disparities of control over production and the quality of the project in its entirety.

I.E: being able to pay respect to the subject matter and production values whilst maintaining desired levels of participation within a context particular constraints.

P.G. Métis Elders Project

MNBC DVD Project process…

• MNBC - UBC Okanagan collaboration

MNBC DVD project objectives

• To communicate positive facets of Métis culture and identity to its membership (especially youth) and mainstream society

• To engage community knowledge holders in the production/selection/presentation of Métis cultural material

MNBC DVD Structure

Participation in Praxis…

Dean Trumbley

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Angus McDougal &

Goldie McDougal (nee Fiddler)

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Bev Lambert

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Lucy Interviews Ryan Bresser

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Lucy Interviews Philip Gladue

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Participation in Product…

A spectrum of participatory influence…