ABSTRACT
This chapter presents a brief overview of a few different methods that are each based primarily in observation. Participatory-action research (PAR) focuses on working directly within communities to improve their conditions, and is often a mix of other methods to preserve a scholarly approach while not separating the scholar from the community. PAR is primarily involved in work with community groups, therefore, and researchers see themselves as active collaborators. Central to PAR is collaboration, not only in action but also in making meaning and defining problems themselves. Outcomes from PAR could be a policy or plan to present to the local Board of Education, an infographic flyer to teach people how and why to use condoms, or a cookbook or cooking classes for single parents to create inexpensive, nutritious meals in a short amount of time. Some of the most impactful research ever conducted was done by people who sat in their homes, offices, or even in parks and libraries.
