ABSTRACT
This chapter builds on the companion book Principles and Methods of Transformative Action Research. It draws on the experience of faculty and students at the Western Institute for Social Research (WISR) in using transformative action research methods for the past 45 years. WISR is a mission-driven institution, with commitments to multiculturalism and inclusiveness, and the pursuit of social justice. WISR provides a highly personalized learner-centered education, with undergraduate and Master’s, and Doctoral degrees in the social sciences, human services, education and social change, community leadership, and counseling psychology. The first part of the book describes and discusses specific applications of methods and principles of transformative action research—1) program evaluations, 2) community needs assessments, 3) creating community-based think tanks, 4) engaging in day to day activities to improve organizations from within while also being aware of the importance of working for change outside the organization; and 5) developing pilot projects and concept papers. The second part of the book, written by various contributing authors on who they have used action research in their communities and organizations, includes a number of vignettes of a variety of the many ways in which WISR learners have used action research over the years.
