Participatory Research: Why and How to Involve People in Research

Participatory Research is a book that provides students with a hands-on guide to understanding and applying participatory methods to their research projects. It offers a comprehensive grounding in the history and theoretical issues surrounding each method, showcases participatory research in action through extensive case studies, and highlights the importance of ethics in research design. With a sustained focus on the impact of digital technologies, it is an essential guide to better research practice for students and researchers across the social sciences.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 31 October 2019
Publisher: SAGE Publications Ltd

Participatory Research is a comprehensive guide that empowers students to confidently understand and apply participatory methods to their research projects. It adopts an accessible approach to explaining the theoretical foundations of participatory research, providing practical strategies for selecting and applying various methods. The book offers a thorough grounding in the history and theoretical issues surrounding each method, showcasing participatory research through extensive on-the-ground case studies. It also emphasizes the importance of ethics in research design, offering guidance on addressing sensitive considerations in participatory research. With a sustained focus on the impact of digital technologies, the book challenges the traditional approach to involving people in contemporary research and serves as an essential guide to improving research practice for students and researchers across the social sciences.

Introduction:
Participatory Research is a transformative approach to research that goes beyond a mere introduction and provides students with a hands-on guide to understanding and applying participatory methods in their projects. By empowering students to engage in research actively, participatory research fosters a sense of confidence and empowers them to make meaningful contributions to their field.

Comprehensive Coverage:
The book takes a comprehensive approach to explaining the theoretical foundations of participatory research. It delves into the history, principles, and ethical considerations that underpin this approach, providing students with a deep understanding of the theoretical framework. Additionally, the book offers practical strategies for selecting and applying a wide range of participatory methods, including interviews, focus groups, participant observation, and collaborative research.

On-the-Ground Case Studies:
To enhance the learning experience, the book showcases participatory research in action through extensive on-the-ground case studies. These case studies provide real-world examples of how participatory methods have been used in various social science research projects, allowing students to see the practical applications of these methods in real-world contexts.

Ethics and Sensitivity:
Ethics is a critical component of participatory research, and the book addresses this issue head-on. It provides guidance on dealing with sensitive considerations in research design, such as participant confidentiality, consent, and power dynamics. By emphasizing the importance of ethical considerations, the book ensures that students conduct research responsibly and with respect for the rights and well-being of the participants.

Digital Technologies and Participatory Research:
In today's digital age, participatory research has taken on a new dimension with the emergence of digital technologies. The book recognizes the need to re-assess the way we involve people in contemporary research and tackles this issue head-on. It explores the impact of digital technologies on participatory research, discussing the opportunities and challenges they present. The book provides insights into how digital technologies can be used to enhance the effectiveness and reach of participatory research projects.

Conclusion:
Participatory Research is a valuable resource for students and researchers across the social sciences. It provides a comprehensive and accessible introduction to participatory research, offering practical strategies for selecting and applying participatory methods. Through extensive on-the-ground case studies and a focus on ethics and sensitivity, the book equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary to conduct high-quality research that engages with and benefits the communities they study. By embracing participatory research, students can contribute to the development of knowledge and make a positive impact on society.

Weight: 462g
Dimension: 171 x 241 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781446273371