INRS 7311 Learning Unit 5 Action Research Theme 1 Action Research

Question 1

Define action research in your own words 4-5 marks

Answer 1

• A dynamic , collabrative process that looks to address social issues .
• Is cyclical in nature
• Powerful tool for change
• Problems are solved using research data
• Researcher can reflect on any actions taken .

Question 2

Explain the nature and characteristics of action research

3-4 marks

Answer 2

• Practical
• Accessible
• Driven to find solutions to problems
• Includes participation (between researchers and respondents)
• Cyclical process

Question 3

List the different types of action research max 4 marks

Answer 3

Technical , Practical , Participatory , Emancipatory

Question 4

Explain Technical action research 3marks

Answer 4

• Aims to increase effectiveness
• It’s success depends on collabarations with participants
• Researchs effectiveness and reliability

Question 5

Explain Practical action research 2 marks

Answer 5

*Researcher is directly involved in studying a local problem eg load shedding in a particular area

Question 6

Explain participatory action research 4 marks

Answer 6

• Used to study social issues and constrain individual lives
• Collabaration is essential
• Focus is on action that will change participants lives .
• eg xenophobia

Question 7

Explain emancipatory action research 2 marks

Answer 7

• Aims to bring change within existing social boundaries/conditions.
• eg the effect of BEE on SA companies

Question 8

Illustrate and explain the action research cycle 12 marks max

Answer 8

• 1: Take action : ID actions that will form part of the action research process . An action is selected that is manageable and relates specfically to the problem .
• 2: Monitor and/or observe : Collect data that measures impact of the implemented action (interviews etc) . Allows for feedback , observation of participants as action is implemented and monitoring of action implementation .
• 3: Analysis of data : Helps determine whether or not the proposed solution has worked to solve the problem or not . Involves exploring relationships between interdependant variables , participant viewpoints and experiences
• 4: Reflection : Reflection is done on the research findings . It will give birth to a new/altered concern relating to the problem . This will in turn restart the action research process .