Chapter 8 Participatory Action Research
Navigating Nuances
In: Critical Reflection on Research in Teaching and LearningSearch for other papers by Nicola Simmons in
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Abstract
Action research has a long history for curriculum review and K-12 work but is less often used in higher education and even less in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, where it finds a close methodological match. Participatory action research involves a balanced relationship with research participants, wherein they become co-inquirers. In this chapter, I provide a literature summary of participatory action research as a methodological approach and then outline one such research partnership. Drawing on Kemmis and McTaggert’s four moments of action research, I focus on the roles of the researcher and participant and how they navigated and negotiated the nuances of the research process, including tips for submitting to the Research Ethics Board. Lessons learned include consideration of the additional time commitment for the participant, along with role and research ownership negotiation. The chapter is intended as both a guidebook and a cautionary note to others engaging in such research partnerships.