SP9250 Action Research and Practice Research Course description

The course gives an introduction to the historical background and development of action research and practice research (including participatory action research, PAR, and participatory practice research, PPR). Research traditions, theories and methodological issues across a variety of disciplines within social and human sciences and professions are examined. 

The course covers theories of science suited for positioning the epistemological and ontological grounding of action and practice research. Important questions include the following: What are the characteristics of action research and practice research? Which view of knowledge build the foundation for these research approaches? What possibilities for developing knowledge exist within different traditions in action research and practice research? What is the potential for carrying out innovative research?

The course includes knowledge on how to apply these research approaches in designing and developing the student’s own research projects. How to design an action or practice research project that is manageable within the resources of a PhD project is given special attention. Ethical challenges are highlighted and critically reflected on, such as power relations between researchers and other actors, anonymity and confidentiality as well as conflicts in the collaboration.

Main Subjects:

• Action Research
• Practice Research
• Participatory Action Research
• Epistemological and methodological issues

Learning Outcome

Completing the course will give the the PhD candidates the following learning outcome, sectioned into knowledge, skills and general competence:

Knowledge:

The PhD candidate

• has in-depth knowledge of the theories of science relating to action research and practice research
• has in-depth knowledge of the theoretical and methodological perspectives that form the basis for action research and practice research, including advanced knowledge about co-production and research with other stakeholders
• can evaluate the expediency and application of methods and research processes within participatory research
• has in-depth knowledge about research ethics significant for processes within action research and practice research
• has advanced knowledge about how action research and practice research can contribute to the development of innovative knowledge and methods

Skills:

The PhD candidate

• can analyse and reflect critically on epistemological and methodological issues in action research and practice research
• can plan and carry out action research and practice research projects of high l standard can handle complex academic issues related to knowledge production and research ethics
• can challenge established knowledge and practice in the field

General Competence:

The PhD candidate

• can identify relevant and innovative research questions for action research and practice research
• can identify relevant ethical issues within participatory research to carry out his/her research with scholarly integrity
• can initiate and manage complex research projects based on collaboration with different stakeholders
• can communicate the research to stakeholders and academic debates through recognized channels, both national and international

The course is based on lectures, self-study and study groups/group work.

The following must have been approved;before the student’s practical training can be assessed:

• Participation in teaching activities related to the chosen specialisation (min. 80%)
• Submission of planning documents for practical training
• Participation in relevant work at the practical training establishment (minimum attendance of 90%)
• Compliance with general requirements for practical training

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All required coursework must be approved before the student’s practical training can be assessed.

Assessment of practical training

Pass/fail

The person responsible for the course following a recommendation from the practical training supervisor

The essay will be graded by the course lectures.

Sidsel Therese Natland and Haavard Aaslund