Action Research Methods

N/A

Classes are dynamic in nature, integrating: 1) a combination of systematic presentations of information and knowledge with critical analysis, based on texts and practical exercises; 2) practical data analysis work, supported by specific software. Students may choose between continuous assessment or assessment by examination. Continuous assessment includes: An action research project (individual) 65%; 5 mini tests throughout the semester 25% and knowledge application tasks 10%

Assessment by examination includes a written test on all the contents of the course unit (100%).

1. To know, master and apply the procedures and methodologies of qualitative/ quantitative research and of action research at several intervention contexts within social pedagogy:
• To identify research problems and design an action research project;
• To select the most appropriate research design;
• To select the universe and the sample;
• To select, use and/ or design appropriate quantitative/ qualitative data collection techniques;
• To analyze quantitative / qualitative data, using specialized software;
• To interpret the collected information and communicate research results to different audiences;
• To solve problems and introduce into daily practice both the results of its own reflexive research practice, and the results of scientific studies and research;
2. To develop a critical awareness of research results conducted either by other researchers, either by his/ her own.

1. Epistemological, ethical and political principles of action research

– The pluridiversity of knowledge and the false dichotomy between rigour and objectivity

– The place of enunciation and its consequences in the practice of MIA.

– Social and political relevance of an IAP: Paulo Freire’s tripod: thinking about the world; analysing the world; acting in the world

2. Qualitative, quantitative and mixed methodologies

– A participatory action research methodology: what does it involve? What is the difference between doing for and doing with

– Research characteristics and instruments: interview and questionnaire surveys; observation and participant observation; document analysis; grey literature analysis; literature review

3. Qualitative methodologies and their different types

– Case studies

– Oral history

– Life stories

– Ethnography and auto-ethnography

– Comparative studies

4. Techniques for processing and analysing the knowledge gathered

– Categorical systematisation and construction of a categorisation grid

– Literature review

– Content analysis

– Statistical analysis

5. IAP research protocol

– What is it for

– Designing the structure of an IAP protocol

Continuous Evaluation:

Action research project (individual) - 65%;

5 mini tests - 25%

knowledge application tasks 10%

Exam:

Exam - 100%

NAO