Research Article  |   July 2014
Examining the Lived Experience and Factors Influencing Education of Two Student Veterans Using Photovoice Methodology
Nikhil Tomar; Virginia Stoffel
Author Affiliations
  • Nikhil Tomar, MS, is Doctoral Student, Division of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, Department of Allied Health Sciences, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Campus Box 7122, Bondurant Hall, Suite 2050, 321 South Columbia Street, Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7122; nikhil_tomar@med.unc.edu
  • Virginia Stoffel, PhD, OT, BCMH, FAOTA, is Associate Professor, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee
Article Information
Military Rehabilitation / Special Issue: Occupational Therapy Research With Military Personnel, Veterans, and Their Families
Research Article   |   July 2014
Examining the Lived Experience and Factors Influencing Education of Two Student Veterans Using Photovoice Methodology
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July/August 2014, Vol. 68, 430-438. doi:10.5014/ajot.2014.011163
American Journal of Occupational Therapy, July/August 2014, Vol. 68, 430-438. doi:10.5014/ajot.2014.011163
Abstract

OBJECTIVE. We sought to understand the lived experience of 2 student veterans and identify factors influencing their higher education.

METHOD. A qualitative research design was used with 2 student veterans who engaged in photovoice methodology. We analyzed their photographs, accompanying narratives, and discussion session transcripts using descriptive coding and thematic analysis.

RESULTS. Data analysis revealed four themes: (1) reminiscence of past duty and reflections on military life, (2) transition from military life to civilian student life, (3) entry to a new stage of life, and (4) influence of the university and community environment.

CONCLUSION. Findings from this study revealed factors influencing student veterans’ education and can be used to develop occupation-based interventions to assist veterans who engage in higher education.