The potential of (participatory) action research for school leaders, local policy makers, and university-based researchers

Abstract

This chapter provides school leaders, local policymakers (e.g. school board members, superintendents, and elected leaders), and novice researchers with a broad introduction to Action Research (AR) and Participatory Action Research (PAR). It discusses the origins and theoretical underpinnings of AR and PAR, presents one commonly used AR/PAR process, and provides recommendations about how novice scholars can engage in AR/PAR. Three critical aspects of AR/PAR are explored: shared ownership, community-based analysis, and an orientation toward action. Overall, we argue that AR/PAR is a unique and accessible methodological approach and that school leaders, local policymakers, and novice researchers should feel confident in engaging in it with communities that seek change.