Background: Play is vital for adolescent physical, mental, and social development. Yet, many adolescents—particularly those with disabilities or from low-income backgrounds—are systematically excluded from typical playgrounds due to structural inequities and exclusionary design. This study used novel citizen science methods for engaging these communities to improve access to play for all.
Methods: Using the Stanford Our Voice method, a multi-sectoral partnership was formed with a local middle school, the county office of education, and an inclusive play nonprofit (Magical Bridge Foundation). 34 students from a low-income racial/ethnic minority area in Daly City, CA, including those from a special education class, completed an initial survey and three educational modules on health equity, inclusive design, and transportation equity. Students then used the Our Voice mobile app to document their access to play at a local playground specifically designed to be inclusive for all ages/abilities. During data collection, students with and without disabilities were grouped together to bridge perspectives. Their geotagged photos, text/audio data, and ratings were compiled into a report for review by students and multi-sectoral partners. Facilitated citizen scientist discussions allowed students to generate common themes and identify relevant stakeholders and feasible action steps.
Results: Students captured 111 photos and 113 comments of playground features rated as either positive (n=74), negative (n=10), or both (n=27). Students evaluated the playground’s accessibility for all ages/abilities (n=23) and for wheelchair users (n=15). Novel features highlighted by them were rest areas, the music zone, and social areas which could facilitate interactions between diverse visitors. Students discussed 17 overarching themes. While before the playground audit most students reported having little ability to influence community decisions, after discussions they generally reported enthusiasm for this type of direct student involvement. This activity led 12 students to present their findings to city officials (e.g., city mayor), who formally recognized their contributions and supported developing next steps for change.
Discussion: Our findings indicate how citizen science and multi-sectoral partnerships can serve as tools for overcoming barriers to engaging minority adolescents and bridging perspectives between such underrepresented populations and local decision-makers.