SOC 766Participatory Action Research

This course is designed to introduce students to the history, theoretical background and application of Participatory Action Research as it is used within the social sciences. Participatory Action Research (PAR) represents an alternative and collaborative approach to the design implementation and outcomes of a community-based research project whereby democratic processes of social and organizational change are priority. A PAR approach is both a method for conducting research and a framework for the ongoing encouraging and/or facilitating social change and social action. The use of various methodologies including peer researchers, mixed methods (quantitative and qualitative), knowledge translation, mobilization strategies for the purpose of needs assessment, program evaluation and policy research, will be explored. Examples of PAR in Canada will be examined as well as examples from international practice. Both the benefits and challenges of a PAR approach will be discussed throughout the course.