A methodology for change and development
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Introduction
Bridget attempts to describe various action research methodologies that can be used by social science researchers to overcome limitations of traditional methodologies when researching changing situations. Action research involves substantive issues that enhance deep understanding of the issues. Somekh (2005, p. 1-9) explains that this new method tends to systematize research and further promotes equality between researchers from outside the site of practice as well as practitioner researchers from outside. It further enhances professionalism amongst social science researchers through the use of action research methodology thus helping in generating knowledge that can address complexity of human experience and social relationship.
Summary
Action research methodology is a very improved way of carrying out research by the social science researchers in the changing world. It tackles some of the complex human and social issues. Somekh (2005, p. 1-9) highlighted some of his practical experiences with research methodology. The need to incorporate information and communication in the action research has been nicely addressed. Social researchers really need to focus on innovation as a means of providing quality and reliability of the knowledge research topic generates. Action research methodology attempts to transform social practices, involve intimate and passionate purposes of parties whose lives and activities constitute the practices being investigated (Somekh, 2005, p. 1-9).
Somekh (2005, p. 1-9) explains that action research methodology tends to be interactive and closely related to a sense of personal efficacy which helps researchers to apply their knowledge and responsibility while carrying out social research. Action research is based on the present understanding of changed situations and applies personal judgment when there appears to be any inconsistencies. The adoption of action research methodology is vital in understanding the radical changes that have been experienced both in social policy and politics.
Critique
Action research methodologies may be the best, innovative social research methods but it may not be easy to adopt them by the researchers. Researches may not be quick at learning the new action research method because of the new collaborative and technicality such as information technology involved in it.
However, action research methodology tends to have more advantages since it incorporates latest information technology as well as involvement of the new social and political policies. The methodology will integrate both action and research in a nice way thus producing up to date information in a very quick way. There is also an interactive and collaborative involvement of all the participants hence leading to positive contribution even amid many constraints. Action research methodology is reliable and depends largely on personal decision because it is based on the present understanding of changed situations and applies personal judgment when there appears to be any inconsistencies. The adoption of action research methodology is vital in understanding the radical changes that have been experienced both in social policy and politics (Somekh, 2005, p. 1-9)).
Conclusion
Indeed the idea of action research methodology in social science research is timely and positive at this time when the social and political set up is experiencing a dramatic change. Traditional methodologies can no longer fully address the current information technologies and social changes that are experienced in the modern researches. Action research methodologies are evidence of the required changes in the research methods and a sign of a great change and transformation of the social science research.
Bibliography
Somekh, B 2005, Action Research: A Methodology For Change And Development, Maidenhead, Berkshire, [Etc.], Open University Press.
