Participatory Research: Exploration & Appl. Action Research Models for SW Practice

Undergraduate / Graduate

This course will explore the history, rationale, and values of participatory action and community-based research methods. The course aims to expand on students' basic research understanding (through SSAD 30200 or comparable coursework) through the following topics: 1) the continuum of community involvement in participatory methods of research, 2) consideration of roles, power and positionality of researchers and participants in the research process, and 3) action-oriented dissemination of research findings. A variety of models will be covered, including Participatory Action Research (PAR), Youth and Feminist Action Research (YPAR and FPAR), Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR), and Empowerment Evaluation (EE), with attention to both qualitative and quantitative data sources. Students will engage in assignments that utilize the classroom space as "community" and practice an intentional application of participatory principles.