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Participatory Action Research: Improving professional practices and local situations
Sage Publications, Ltd.
  • Mary M. Somerville, University of Colorado, Denver
ORCiD
0000-0002-4201-8335
Document Type
Case Study
DOI
10.4135/978144627305014534165
Publication Date
1-1-2014
Abstract

Participatory Action Research employs social sciences research methods to develop actionable local knowledge. In seeking meaningful and inclusive ways of generating knowledge together in the workplace, Participatory Action Research practitioner–researchers combine action and reflection with theory and practice to improve local situations and enhance professional practices. Working with and for others, co-researchers evolve learning cycles that are practical and emergent, participatory and collaborative, emancipatory and democratic, and interpretive and local. In this case, the cyclical ‘methods in action’ orientation of Participatory Action Research is illustrated through examples from a North American academic library facility renovation initiative. Practical advice is offered on proposal planning and study implementation in organizational settings. In addition, learning outcomes and discussion questions enable reflective project planning and iterative evaluation.

Comments

ISBN: 978-1473962941

Originally published by SAGE Research Methods located on the SAGE website here: http://dx.doi.org/10.4135/978144627305014534165

Citation Information
Somerville, M. M. (2014). Participatory Action Research: Improving professional practices and local situations. SAGE Research Methods Cases. Los Angeles, CA: SAGE Publications Ltd. doi: http://dx.doi.org/10.4135/978144627305014534165