In the field of ESD, empowerment, transformative and emancipatory methodologies are highly credited. Action Research (AR) and especially Participatory Action Research (PAR) are congruent with these methodologies. This course introduces students to critical research methodology, where AR and PAR, are part of. It is a hands-on course involving students in carrying out small-scale field practice on a sustainable development issue. Broadly, the course is divided into three parts. In the first part, it focuses on critical research methodology and the identification of theoretical and historical perspectives that have shaped the development and evolution of AR and PAR. In the second part, the course focuses on an examination of the steps in the process of an AR and/or PAR project along with the issues and approaches to judging its rigor, validity, research ethics and meaningfulness. In the third part, the course culminates with issues that concern the analysis and interpretation of AR/PAR data; presenting and using research results to affect change processes. The overriding goal of this course is to help participants understand basic conceptsof critical research methodology with particular reference to action research and participatory action research. More specific objectives concern: deconstructing the conventional discourse of research methodology; embracing principles of empowerment, change agency, active participation and reflection in the research process; applying action research methods to sustainability issues.

  

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