Practicing Value and Virtue: Action Research for a Good Social Order

• In Event: Defining Action Research Through Different Lenses

Abstract

We offer a view of action research as virtuous, explaining how this requires a demonstration of how action, and the knowledge generated through study of its intents, processes and outcomes may contribute to personal and social wellbeing. Explanations are offered for how abstract conceptualisations of ‘good’ may be realised as living practices for personal and social benefit, and how research may generate knowledge that will contribute to understandings of the processes involved. Evidence sources, drawn from international empirical databases of practitioners’ action enquiries, are cited that show these recommendations in practice, in relation to identified criteria and standards of judgement. The significance of the research lies in its capacity to reclaim action research as a methodology of spirituality and interconnectedness.

Authors

• Jean McNiff, York St John University

• Julie Pearson, St. Mary's University College

• Peter McDonnell, independent researcher