Reflections on the potential (and limits) of action research as ethos, methodology and practice: A case study of a women’s empowerment programme in the Middle East

Abstract provided on behalf of the authors: Suzanne Hammad, Alice Alunni, and Tamara Alkhas This paper argues that an evidence-based approach to advocacy led by and targeting women could amplify women’s positioning in the political and economic realms. Participatory Action Research is examined as a process for mobilisation, coalition-building and evidence-based advocacy and action, through a case […]

Camera, Lights, Action: Participatory video for two-way communication in research for development

Global development objectives increasingly call for interdisciplinary approaches that respond to different development needs at the local level. In order to achieve this, research and development fields must shift from more traditional top-down approaches to those approaches that include community needs assessments and project design, implementation, and follow-up. “Participatory video for two-way communication in research for […]

Got Mixed Methods?

Orozco, Got mixed methods? By Diana Orozco A blog inspired by the AR article: Measuring in action research: Four ways of integrating quantitative methods in participatory dynamics, Joel Marti, Action Research, 14(2), p. 168-183. Do want to know how to resolve the conflict you feel between the comfort and neutrality quantitative research provides, with the […]

Inmates vs. The Guards

“Testing it in the real world”: Using action research to apply a conceptual framework to social care planning.

Action research was transformative for us as disability researchers and for social care planning with people with complex support needs in Australia.  The participatory approach was a rich experience that allowed us to work in partnership, both conceptually and practically, with the end users of our work. Our earlier qualitative study with 100 practitioners had […]