Abstract
| Original language | English |
|---|---|
| Pages (from-to) | 295-317 |
| Number of pages | 23 |
| Journal | Action Research |
| Volume | 14 |
| Issue number | 3 |
| DOIs | |
| Publication status | Published - 9 Dec 2015 |
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Keywords
- participatory action research
- knowledge mobilization
- transformative research
- alternative food networks
- epistemic justice
- local food
Cite this
Transformative research as knowledge mobilization: transmedia, bridges and layers. / Anderson, Colin Ray; McLachlan, Stéphane M.
In: Action Research, Vol. 14, No. 3, 09.12.2015, p. 295-317.Research output: Contribution to journal › Article
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TY - JOUR
T1 - Transformative research as knowledge mobilization: transmedia, bridges and layers
AU - Anderson, Colin Ray
AU - McLachlan, Stéphane M.
PY - 2015/12/9
Y1 - 2015/12/9
N2 - Mainstream knowledge production and communication in the academy generally reflect the tenets of positivist research and predominantly embody hierarchical processes of knowledge transfer. In contrast, a transformative research paradigm is rooted in knowledge mobilization processes involving close collaboration between researchers and community actors as co-enquirers as a part of a broader agenda for progressive social change. They also involve strategic communication strategies that mobilize knowledge beyond those directly involved in the research process. We illustrate the cyclical pattern and transgressive potential of knowledge mobilization processes through a reflective case study of a participatory action research program in the Canadian Prairies. Based on this work, we present three key knowledge mobilization strategies. These include: using transmedia to exchange knowledge across a range of communication media; building bridges to invite communication amongst diverse knowledge communities; and layering to communicate knowledge at varying levels of detail. We critically examine our own practice as a contested and partial process in tension with the institutional and cultural durability of the more linear knowledge transfer paradigm. Knowledge mobilization strategies provide a framework to implement research methods, communication processes, and outcomes that are high in impact and relevant in struggles for a more just and resilient society.
AB - Mainstream knowledge production and communication in the academy generally reflect the tenets of positivist research and predominantly embody hierarchical processes of knowledge transfer. In contrast, a transformative research paradigm is rooted in knowledge mobilization processes involving close collaboration between researchers and community actors as co-enquirers as a part of a broader agenda for progressive social change. They also involve strategic communication strategies that mobilize knowledge beyond those directly involved in the research process. We illustrate the cyclical pattern and transgressive potential of knowledge mobilization processes through a reflective case study of a participatory action research program in the Canadian Prairies. Based on this work, we present three key knowledge mobilization strategies. These include: using transmedia to exchange knowledge across a range of communication media; building bridges to invite communication amongst diverse knowledge communities; and layering to communicate knowledge at varying levels of detail. We critically examine our own practice as a contested and partial process in tension with the institutional and cultural durability of the more linear knowledge transfer paradigm. Knowledge mobilization strategies provide a framework to implement research methods, communication processes, and outcomes that are high in impact and relevant in struggles for a more just and resilient society.
KW - participatory action research
KW - knowledge mobilization
KW - transformative research
KW - alternative food networks
KW - epistemic justice
KW - local food
U2 - 10.1177/1476750315616684
DO - 10.1177/1476750315616684
M3 - Article
VL - 14
SP - 295
EP - 317
JO - Action Research
JF - Action Research
SN - 1476-7503
IS - 3
ER -