Understanding the "Mediation in Media" Study: Methodology, process, and findings

Soon the Include Me+ project will make available its first output, the Mediation in media study. This study offers a comprehensive set of recommendations, outlining a detailed methodology and the steps necessary for its implementation. The research aims to understand the inclusion, participation, and peacebuilding through mediation in media potential while developing a structured methodology for its application.

How was the Study produced?

The study was compiled through two approaches: Participatory Action Research (PAR) and Desk research. Each partner organization conducted the PAR and desk research within their own geographical context, covering the following countries: Denmark, Finland, Germany, Spain, Turkey and Ukraine. Additionally, eucen, as a second-degree organization, conducted its research from a non-geographically bound European perspective, ensuring an EU-wide outlook.

Each partner produced a report on the PAR and a report on the Desk Research bringing together the findings. This combined approach ensures that the study not only provides an overview of the broader digital inclusion landscape but also delivers detailed, expert-backed recommendations.

Participatory Action Research process

Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a qualitative research methodology that actively involves participants in both the action and the research process. This approach ensures that those implementing the actions also take on the role of researchers, fostering a dynamic environment where stakeholders learn, reflect, and adapt collaboratively during the research process.

The PAR group was composed of representatives from different target groups of the project, including: Higher Education Institutions (HEIs), Digital Media Representatives, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) and Students.

While each project partner followed their own tailored process, the overarching methodology adhered to the following structured phases:

1. Approach and design: In this initial phase, the research framework and objectives were established, ensuring a clear direction for the study. The process involved identifying and selecting participants who were representatives or experts from the respective target groups. This careful selection was crucial in ensuring a well-rounded and inclusive analysis, bringing together diverse perspectives essential for a comprehensive understanding of the research themes.
2. Diagnosis and discussion of proposals: During this phase, key concepts were identified and analysed in relation to the study’s objectives. The creation of the PAR group was a fundamental step, as it facilitated collaborative discussions and the collection of relevant data. The engagement of various stakeholders in this process enabled a thorough examination of the issues at hand and the development of well-informed proposals.
3. Implementation: Carrying out the proposed methodologies in real-world scenarios, identifying challenges, gathering insights, and proposing possible solutions through interviews, group activities, discussions, etc.
4. Conclusions and proposals: Following the implementation phase, the collected data was analysed to extract meaningful conclusions. This phase focused on refining recommendations, consolidating findings, and identifying key lines of action for future implementation.
5. Dissemination of the experience and final report: Currently, the final report is in the process of completion and will undergo user testing to validate its findings and recommendations. The dissemination phase ensures that the study’s insights and proposals reach relevant stakeholders, facilitating their adoption in real-world applications and contributing to the broader objective of inclusive digital media practices.

Desk research and data collection

Alongside the participatory research, the study also includes desk research conducted between May and December 2024. This desk research forms a crucial part of WP2, which seeks to identify the most critical elements influencing digital inclusion for vulnerable groups, particularly refugees and migrants.

To ensure a thorough and detailed analysis, the study employs a qualitative methodological approach that integrates:

• A literature review, offering a broad perspective on the current state of digital inclusion.
• In-depth interviews with experts, capturing specialized knowledge and real-world insights.

Why this Study matters?

The findings of this study will serve as the foundation for the IncludeMe+ educational programme, guiding content creation strategies and collaborations between key institutions such as HEIs and CSOs. By identifying key discussion points and challenges in the complex process of digital inclusion, the study aims to inspire innovative solutions for supporting at-risk groups in the digital era.

With all data now collected and analysed, the final study is set to provide valuable recommendations that will pave the way for a more inclusive digital media environment.