A Conversation with Professor Lesley Wood, NWU, South Africa - Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR) for Community-based Research in a Developing Economic Context

ALARA presents
 A Conversation with Professor Lesley Wood, NWU, South Africa

Participatory Action Learning and Action Research (PALAR) for Community-based Research in a Developing Economic Context

Abstract:

PALAR follows an emerging process where research takes shape gradually rather than being pre-designed, and aims at collaborative transformation of participants (including academic researchers) through its emphasis on action learning. PALAR is not only a methodological approach; it is also a philosophy underpinned by critical, emancipatory and person-centred theories. PALAR combines community development, leadership development and the development of lifelong learning as a positive and essential approach to community engagement (Zuber-Skerritt, 2015). This paradigm is eminently suited to the need for universities to promote  ‘the mobilisation of human talent and potential through lifelong learning to contribute to the social, economic, cultural and intellectual life of a rapidly changing society’(DHET, 2011, p.3), since the action learning process develops capacity for lifelong learning and action leadership.

In this conversation, I would like to share some of the research I have been doing in this area in South Africa, and invite participants to engage in dialogue about some of the challenges facing researchers who take a participatory stance.

Where:           Restaurant, Yeronga Village, 15 Cansdale St, Yeronga Qld 4104

When:            Thursday, 1 March, 5.30 – 8.00 pm

Parking:         Cansdale St or Venner Rd

Cost:               Free, sponsored by the Village Management, including room and refreshments.                                        BYO drinks

R.S.V.P.          Please email or text Gina Blackberry on g.blackberry@griffith.edu.au or 0408066904

ALARA is a strategic network of people interested or involved in using action learning or action research to generate collaborative learning, research and action to transform workplaces, school, colleges, universities, communities, voluntary organizations, governments and business.

ALARA’s vision is that action learning and action research will be widely used and publicly shared by individuals and groups creating local and global change for the achievement of a more equitable and, just and joyful, productive and sustainable society.

You don’t have to be an ALARA member to attend.  If you have questions about ALARA you can ask them at the Conversation.