Target Audience: All
Location: Calgary, Canada
Presenters: Sheila McNamee, Dan Wulff, Sally St. George



Description:
This workshop will focus on modes of inquiry that blur the traditional distinction between research and social change (e.g., consultation, program development, etc.). We will explore what research from a constructionist orientation looks like, how is it different and similar to traditional, empirical modes of inquiry, and how research informs the everyday practices of all participants. Emphasis will be given to the transformative potential of inquiry. In particular, participatory research, appreciative inquiry, action research, and autoethnography will be used to make the case for widening participation and involvement in research in order to maximize the relevance and accessibility of studies. This theme resonates with the constructionist call to recognize the ways in which all social action rests in a matrix of relationships with other actors.

During this workshop, time will be spent exploring participants' own "contexts of inquiry" and designing relational forms of practice that both serve the members of those contexts while contributing to our general understanding of a wide range of social practices. In other words, we will take workshop participants’ “research topics” and design methods for “producing research results” and understand them as importantly contributing to the process of local change and development.

To that end, this workshop will redefine research as an everyday practice with relevance beyond professional, scientific communities. This workshop is a valuable opportunity for students and practitioners engaged in research.

To register and for more information contact:
Sally St. George and Dan Wulff at: calgary_home@shaw.ca