ABSTRACT
In this chapter, the ethic of action research is described as an ethic of discursive potential. Research is viewed as an embodied, cultural practice that is situated in history and local circumstances. This view places emphasis on the collaborative, relational processes within which researchers and research participants engage for purposes of social transformation. Such collaboratively achieved social transformation is realized (literally: made real) by expanding the discursive possibilities of all participants. In other words, action research creates a conversational domain where competing and diverse forms of understanding can be in dialogue in an attempt to expand possibilities, as opposed to rendering judgement or evaluation of “the best way forward.” To that end, action research embraces the view that research is a process of social transformation and thus a form of ethical practice. It is ethical in its adherence to collaborating with participants to ensure that the research is useful to the community through expanding the array of discourses with which participants can engage.
