Participary Action Research
Introduction
Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a methodological approach in the field of social sciences that emphasizes participation and action. It seeks to understand the world by trying to change it, collaboratively and following reflection. PAR emphasizes collective inquiry and experimentation grounded in experience and social history. Within a PAR process, "communities of inquiry and action evolve and address questions and issues that are significant for those who participate as co-researchers" 1.
History and Evolution
The roots of Participatory Action Research can be traced back to the work of Kurt Lewin in the 1940s. Lewin, a social psychologist, is often credited as the person who coined the term 'action research'. His research was deeply influenced by a democratic ethos, grounded in his belief that individuals should be involved in the decisions that affect their lives 2.
Over the years, PAR has evolved and been influenced by a variety of disciplines and fields, including sociology, anthropology, education, and public health. It has been used as a method in various settings, from community development projects to organizational change initiatives and policy reform efforts.
Principles
Participatory Action Research is guided by the principles of participation, action, and research.
Participation
Participation in PAR is not simply about being involved in a research project. It is about being actively engaged in the process of knowledge creation. This includes identifying the research question, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting and applying the findings. Participation in PAR is often seen as a way to empower individuals and communities by giving them a voice in the research process.
Action
Action in PAR refers to the application of the research findings in a way that leads to change. This could be change at the individual level, such as changes in attitudes or behaviors, or at the community level, such as changes in policies or practices. The action component of PAR is what distinguishes it from other forms of research that are primarily concerned with generating knowledge.
Research
Research in PAR is about generating knowledge that is grounded in the lived experiences of the participants. It is about understanding the world from the perspective of those who are living it. This type of research is often qualitative in nature, relying on methods such as interviews, focus groups, and observation.
Methodology
The methodology of Participatory Action Research is flexible and adaptable to the specific context and needs of the participants. However, there are some common steps that are often followed in a PAR process.
Problem Identification
The first step in a PAR process is the identification of a problem or issue that the participants want to address. This is often done through a process of dialogue and reflection, where participants share their experiences and perspectives.
Data Collection
Once the problem or issue has been identified, the next step is to collect data that can help to understand it better. This could involve a variety of methods, including surveys, interviews, focus groups, or observation.
Data Analysis
The data that is collected is then analyzed to identify patterns, themes, and insights. This analysis is often done collaboratively, with participants involved in the process.
Action Planning
Based on the findings from the data analysis, an action plan is developed. This plan outlines the steps that will be taken to address the problem or issue.
Action Implementation
The action plan is then implemented, with participants taking an active role in the process.
Reflection and Evaluation
After the action has been implemented, there is a period of reflection and evaluation. This is an opportunity to assess the impact of the action and to learn from the process.
Applications
Participatory Action Research has been applied in a wide range of contexts and settings. Some examples include:
- Community development: PAR has been used to engage community members in identifying and addressing issues that affect their lives, such as poverty, unemployment, or lack of access to services.
- Education: Teachers and students have used PAR to explore issues related to teaching and learning, such as curriculum development, classroom dynamics, or school policies.
- Health: In the field of public health, PAR has been used to explore issues related to health and wellbeing, such as access to healthcare, health behaviors, or health outcomes.
- Organizational change: Organizations have used PAR to engage employees in the process of organizational change, such as restructuring, process improvement, or culture change.
Criticisms and Challenges
While Participatory Action Research has been widely used and has many proponents, it is not without its critics. Some of the criticisms and challenges associated with PAR include:
- Time and resources: PAR is often a time-consuming process that requires a significant investment of resources. This can be a challenge in contexts where resources are limited.
- Power dynamics: Despite the emphasis on participation, power dynamics can still influence the process. For example, some participants may have more influence or control over the process than others.
- Quality of research: Some critics question the quality of the research produced through PAR, arguing that it may be biased or lack rigor.
- Sustainability: There can be challenges associated with sustaining the changes that are made through a PAR process, particularly in contexts where there is resistance to change.
Conclusion
Participatory Action Research is a powerful approach to research that emphasizes participation, action, and the generation of knowledge that is grounded in lived experience. While it is not without its challenges, it offers a way to engage individuals and communities in the process of change, and to generate knowledge that is relevant and applicable to their lives.
See Also
- Community-Based Participatory Research - Action Research - Qualitative Research