What does PAR mean in UNIVERSITIES

Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a form of research that involves the people most affected by an issue being actively involved in producing new knowledge about it, working in collaboration with researchers.

Participatory Action Research is conducted by those affected by the particular problem or issue. Researchers may be involved in supporting or facilitating the research process but it should always involve those most affected by the research topic.

The aim of PAR is two-fold; firstly it seeks to produce useful information or insights that can help inform policy or practice, and secondly it strives to build knowledge and skills among those directly participating in the research process so they can effectively advocate for their own interests.

Traditional models of research are typically based on hierarchical principles with researchers at the top who define aspects such as what questions will be asked and how results will be interpreted. In contrast, Participatory Action Research involves everyone equally in all stages of the research process from defining questions through to interpretation of results. It also focuses on involving participants throughout not just at the end stage when results are presented.

As well as providing useful data for informing policy and practice, Participants also have an opportunity to develop their own understanding and knowledge about a particular issue or problem area which can help them effectively advocate for their interests.