Action research

Question 1

a. As an action researcher you can be both insider and outsider? Elaborate on the implications of being insider or outsider – what could be possible advantages and Disadvantages

Answer 1

Insider:

Advantages:

Accuracy with framework of Data Collection
Excellent familiarity with the internal environment and operational systmers in the area.
easy of access already formed relationships with key informats particular advantages in terms of gaining research access, understanding the culture, and managing the time demands associated with qualitative research

Diadvantages

More familiar you are with a social situation, the less you may be able to recognize the tacit cultural rules that are at work

Biases Tendency to provide results according to the desires of your sponsor

Outsiderd

Advantages

have the advantage of providing the stimulus for insiders embedded within the setting to question taken-for-granted assumptions

. This can bring a fresh perspective to a group if an outsider takes a positive approach to problem solving.

Diasdvantages

I begin each endeavour struggling with a sense of only
scratching the surface. This is a consequence of my unfamiliarity with the setting within
which I find myself

lack of familiarity with power relationships, culture and people has at times impacted negatively on my ability to identify the appropriate individuals to approach
familiarity with power relationships, culture and people has at times impacted negatively on my ability to identify the appropriate individuals to approach

Question 2

b. How could an action research approach be used in concluding a master thesis? Elaborate on the issue with the help of an example!

Answer 2

……

Question 3

a. What are the main characteristics of action research?

Answer 3

Collaboration
Problems perceived outside the academy
Reflection Cycles
New Knowledge
Action (Generate Change)
Publishing