Education, Participatory Action Research, and Social Change (PDF)

Dip Kapoor is an associate professor, International Education, in Educational Policy Studies, University of Alberta

"This is the book we have been waiting for. PAR historically originated in political struggle; yet over the years there has been a cooptation and an evisceration of the essential notion of what is participatory by the western research establishment. PAR has lost its sharp definition and power has been deleted from the research equation . . .Every educator interested in social change should read it." - Phyllis Cunningham, Distinguished Teaching Professor Emeritus and Activist Scholar, Northern Illinois University

"This book is a welcome addition to the critical literature on research methodologies. In particular, researchthat engagesthose who want to tell their own stories, on their own terms, using the vernacular will be encouraged by this publication. The authorsargue thatPAR has the potential to generate radical change . . .One of the several strengths portrayed in this book is the critique in anticipation of those who would corrupt the democratic and communitarian ethos of PAR." - Wally Penetito, Professor of Maori Education, Te Kura Maori and Co-Director of He Parekereke: Institute for Research and Development in Maori and Pacific Education, Victoria University of Wellington, New Zealand

"This is a must read and a timely text for both students and scholars in the field. Kapoor and Jordan provide a wide array of perspectives on the politics of social change, voice and research, offering critical insights to democratic and participatory methodologies. This is a significant contribution to the literature, especially as we struggle to (re)define justice across the globe. A perfect and soon to be classic anthology for classroom use!" - Sandy Grande, Associate Professor of Education, Connecticut College