THE RESEARCH CIRCLE AS A RESOURCE IN CHALLENGING ACADEMICS’ PERCEPTIONS OF HOW TO SUPPORT STUDENTS’ LITERACY DEVELOPMENT IN HIGHER EDUCATION

Abstract

This article deals with an action research project in which a group of academics from different disciplines reflect on and gradually extend their knowledge on how to support students’ academic literacy development. The aim of this research is to understand how the collaborative work becomes a resource in challenging participants’ initial perceptions. The results show that participants’ experience-based stories play a significant role alongside research-based knowledge. The participants’ conversations change character from focusing on approaches to remedy students’ failings to focusing on participants’ individual teaching practices and institutional responsibilities. Accordingly, a basis for change and development is created.