ABSTRACT
This chapter explores Action Research, particularly with reference to Participatory Action Research (PAR), and its possible application to developing inclusive practice in the development of friendships and social skills in primary schools. The chapter presents a small project which focusses on friendships and the development of social skills, drawing on the contribution of Vygotsky’s notion of the Zone of Proximal Development (ZPD). The project explores ways in which scaffolding can be developed between children as ‘peer teachers’ and collaborators in a creative learning process. This chapter draws out the role of children as co-researchers and emphasizes the rich possibilities opened up by Participatory Action Research and the role of ‘ground-level collaborative empowerment’ in transforming education.
