Action Research: co-created knowledge promoting change in lives and societies

Action research is research through action, where the goal is systematic change of practice and society for the better. Through action research, researchers team up with relevant actors such as practitioners, employees of businesses and residents of local communities to shape a future they together want to be a part of. This PhD course offers a theoretical and practical introduction to a number of key approaches and methodologies in the field of action research. Particular attention is paid to the development of practices that aim to strengthen well-being, social justice and sustainable welfare development. The PhD course will address and shed light on scientific theoretical and methodological issues, various forms and justifications for action research, ethics and research policy. Throughout the course, various action research projects will be presented and reflected on. (Prior to the course, participants are advised to have entered the course literature)

Knowledge:

The Candidate

• has in-depth knowledge of action research and scientific theoretical issues and methods
• can assess the appropriateness and application of different methods and processes of action research in research and professional development projects
• can contribute to the development of new knowledge, new theories, methods, interpretations and forms of documentation within action research in their field

Skills:

The Candidate

• is able to formulate issues for, plan and carry out action research and professional development work
• can conduct action research and professional development work at a high international level
• can handle complex academic questions and challenge established knowledge and practice on action research methods

Genrel Competence:

The Candidate

• is able to identify new relevant ethical issues and conduct their research with professional integrity in action research
• can manage complex interdisciplinary tasks and projects with action research
• can assess the need for, initiate and drive innovation with the use of action research

Dialogue-based teaching, reflective teamwork and group work.

Mandatory activities

Compulsory participation in teaching

Compulsory activity from previous semester can be approved by the department.