This part introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters. The part draws on University College London's review of practice of collaborative research efforts between universities and community heritage organisations, offers a useful framework for understanding this complexity of emerging practice and research of participatory practice. It offers a summary of the broad turn to participatory approaches to history and heritage-making, including self-representation and shifts in institutional authority. The part helps to locate the particular agendas and drivers of such practices across different international contexts, including indigenous rights frameworks. It shows the potential for impact at a personal level for participants, and mutual benefits of the projects for other participants, but also highlights the difficult ethical terrain of working with marginalised communities. The part offers reflections on where the ambitious participatory project may have been flawed and what role the museum might play as a facilitator of dialogue.