C)+Methodological+Variations

=Methodological Variations = = = Action research involves:

 ...a form of //collective//, self-reflective enquiry undertaken by participants in social situations in order to improve the rationality and justice of their own social or educational practices, as well as their understanding of these practices and the situation in which these practices are carried out. Groups of participants can be teachers, students, principals, parents, and other community members—any group with a shared concern. The approach is only action research when it is //collaborative//, though it is important to realize that the action research of the group is achieved through the //critically examined// action of the individual group members. (Kemmis and McTaggert, 1982, p. 6)

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= = = = = = =__Methodological Variations__=

Rearick and Feldman (1999) focuses on methodological variations that occur within the broad methodological perspective, Participatory Action Research (PAR). There are numerous methodological variations for PAR including participatory research, classroom action research, action learning, soft systems approaches, industrial action research, and action science.

The differences among the PAR approaches are determined by the objectives and interests for the research study. The authors propose a framework to guide the PAR approach employed. The framework is based on the following three considerations:

1. What orientations were served? Technical, Practical, Emancipatory 2. What purposes were emphasized? Personal, Professional, Political 3. What types of reflective processes were used? Autobiographical, Collaborative, Communal

Technical Action Research - designed to render an existing situation more efficient and effective. It is akin to Schons (1987) notion of 'reflection-in-action'

Practical Action Research - designed to promote teachers' professionalism by drawing on their informed judgement. It is akin to Schon's 'reflection-on-action'. It helps understanding and interpreting social situations with a view to their improvement. (characterizes much Action Research in the UK)

Emancipatory Action Research - an agenda which is as political as it is educational. It seeks to develop in participants their understandings of illegitimate structural and interpersonal constraints that are preventing the exercise of their autonomy and freedom. These constraints are based on illegitimate repression, domination and control.