Action research: Assumptions and practice

Abstract

This paper by Dr. Rajesh Tandon examines the assumptions of classical enquiry in social science research and presents the case for action research as a distinct alternative. Can social science research remain valid and relevant when it separates knowledge generation from knowledge utilization, objectivity from subjective experience, and researchers from the communities they research? The paper demonstrates how each assumption proves inadequate for understanding complex social realities and presents action research as an integrative approach that combines understanding and change. It further elaborates upon the three aspects of action research. Ideologically, it recognizes inquiry to be normative and broadens the purpose of social science to knowledge utilisation. Epistemologically, it draws from adult learning theory and embraces multiple ways of knowing. Methodologically, it advocates for transactional and participative relationships between researchers and participants. The paper then concludes by raising five critical questions challenging classical social science research in the context of countries like India.