explore · Research, Social Design, Problem Solving · 50 min · 4-30 people · medium energy

Research Populations: Wheel of Power Application

This activity guides research teams to consider how their own positions on the Wheel of Power affect their research within a specific community. It promotes inclusive research practices by encouraging awareness of privilege, marginalization, and respectful communication.

When to use Research Populations: Wheel of Power Application

Use this method when designing research projects that involve working with diverse communities. It helps researchers to be more aware of their biases and to develop more inclusive research methods.

What it solves

Researchers overlooking their own biases, difficulty accessing and communicating with diverse communities, research findings that are not representative of the population.

How to run Research Populations: Wheel of Power Application, step by step

  1. Students join research groups and assign roles (timekeeper, facilitator) (5 mins)
  2. Each student shares how their position on the Wheel of Power affects their confidence/insecurity in conducting research (3 mins each, with flashbacks) (25 mins)
  3. Plenary discussion to explore characteristics of the research community and relevant aspects of the Wheel of Power (10 mins)
  4. Groups draw their own version of the Wheel of Power for their specific population and plot individuals/groups (10 mins)

Materials needed

  • Wheel of Power handout
  • Paper/whiteboard
  • Pens/markers
  • Timer

Facilitator tips

  • Encourage students to be specific about the characteristics of their research community.
  • Facilitate a discussion about constructive mindsets and values for inclusive social design.
  • Remind students to consider how their relative position of privilege or marginalization affects them as researchers.

Common pitfalls

  • Groups struggling to identify relevant variables for their research population. Provide examples and guidance.
  • Superficial analysis of researcher positionality. Encourage deeper reflection and self-awareness.
  • Lack of practical strategies for inclusive research. Facilitate a discussion about concrete actions.

Variations

  • Invite community members to participate in the Wheel of Power creation process.
  • Use the Wheel of Power to analyze existing research data.
  • Develop a code of ethics for inclusive research based on the Wheel of Power.

Running it online or hybrid

Use digital whiteboards for collaborative wheel creation and note-taking. Facilitate online discussions.

What it produces

A customized Wheel of Power for the research population, notes on researcher positionality and communication strategies.

Origin

Adapted from the Wheel of Power concept. — source

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