Participatory Research: Exploration and Application of Action Research Models for Social Work Practice

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 SSA 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.
This course is one of SSA's global and international course offerings.