A Reflective Inquiry as Participatory and Appreciative Action and Reflection

Abstract

The essence of this paper is to suggest a form of reflective inquiry that is based upon the principles and processes of participatory and appreciative action and reflection (PAAR). This emergent methodology, first developed by Ghaye, (2005, 2008), involves a change in mindset away from deficit-based discourses and inquiries towards more strength-based conversations and inquiries that use the power of the appreciative question to build better futures from aspects of the positive present. Central to inquiries of this kind are actions that are aligned with authentic participation, an appreciation of individual and collective gifts and talents, an understanding of the complementary way creative and critical thinking interact and the need for moral courage and ethical behaviours. PAAR-type reflective inquiries are brought into an ensemble where using our appreciative “gaze,” our ability to re-frame current realities and build collective wisdom enables us to demonstrate achievement and move forward with conviction.