Navigating the challenging landscape of research with children and young people

The contemporary lives of children and young people are increasingly identified as being complex, multidimensional and inter-contextual. Within this chapter, we explore some of the factors related to this and consider how shifting perspectives of children and young people have enabled them to be viewed as competent social agents, capable of both reflecting on and speaking about their lived experiences. We reflect on this in light of the implications for educational research with children and youth, particularly with regard to the perceived relevance of research activities for young participants. Linking with broader discussions, we argue the need for a shift in perspective from research done on children and youth to research done with and for children and youth that more meaningfully includes and engages them. In making this case, we highlight three key areas that interconnect within broad discussions around educational research with/for children and youth: (i) notions of youth voice and agency; (ii) participatory approaches to conducting research with/for children and youth; and (iii) ethical challenges and considerations. As such, this chapter lays the foundation for subsequent discussions throughout the book.