Engaging with marginalised groups in public open space research: The potential of collaboration and combined methods

This paper discusses methodological dilemmas that were encountered, and strategies used to overcome them, in the Viewfinder project that was undertaken in 2004 in Sheffield, UK. The project investigated refugees' perceptions and experiences of urban public open space in the UK. Through partnership with a 12-week, accredited photography training course and visits to public open spaces, the research combined visual, experiential, participatory and longitudinal approaches. This paper discusses the success of these in relation to three aims: (1) generating a research situation of open communication; (2) collaborating with non-academic partners; and (3) creating mutual benefit. The research identifies methodological techniques that have potential for engaging marginalised groups in landscape and planning research and in consultation practice.