In undertaking the CEDAR project over the last three years, there has been a vast accumulation of knowledge and experiences in processes and issues relating to both community economic development and the use of action research (AR) as a methodology
A secondary objective of CEDAR right from the outset was to contribute to building Knowledge about the usefulness of an action research approach for policy developments. The use of AR in this context was new and it was felt that through CEDAR, the Department of Labour could build knowledge about AR and share experiences more widely with other policy agencies about how AR works in practice.
In this paper we discuss our experiences in doing action research and share some methodological insights with other practitioners. The aim is to promote knowledge flows both within the public service and with the wider stakeholder community so as to contribute to a shared understanding about the use and value of using AR as a methodology. The paper is intended to be a resource for those interested in participatory research methodologies and/or using these methods in their research practice. The paper discusses AR from a theoretical perspective (what it is); how AR was implemented in the CEDAR project (how did we go about doing it); what are the key variables that impact on the success of an AR approach (e.g. when is it appropriate); and the value of engaging in AR for the participants.
This paper, combined with other resource papers is being considered for publishing and if appropriate disseminated via seminars and workshops.
Methodology
The research project used the interactive social science research methodology. -action research as it served two purposes. Firstly, it allowed the researchers to set up an active reflection process, through which the project team (researchers, community practitioners and policy analysts) could explore the systemic issues that helped/hindered communities reaching their economic development goals and thereby develop solutions. Secondly, it helped promote reflective practice at all levels: within communities, within community development workers and within policy makers. By setting up such a dialogue between government and community, there was an expectation that the process would yield mutual learning for all participants.
From the Department of Labour’s perspective, there was the expectation that the knowledge and understanding of community economic development processes built over time through an action research methodology would contribute at many levels including:
• Contributing to the policy makers understanding and concept of the ‘real’ world (Weiss)
• Enhancing the quality of the Department’s policy advice and the ability to ensure that policy advice reflects the reality of what is happening on the ground
• Meeting growing demand from communities, voluntary groups, Iwi and Maori organisations for public participation in the policy process
• Enhancing community knowledge, understanding and awareness of various policy initiatives and the policy making process.