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Action Research (510X8)

15 credits, Level 7 (Masters)

Spring teaching

This module is for you if you’re interested in action research. It also suits you if you can’t use action research but want to explore reflexive and participatory approaches. In this module, you’ll begin with clear definitions of action research and key theoretical perspectives that you’ll return to later.

You’ll learn how to plan and structure a project, looking at both cyclical and linear approaches. The module looks at the tension between participants and researcher, focusing on how this affects the micro-politics of a research setting.

You’ll look at how different theories affect methods, focusing on critical theory and post-modernism. You’ll also look at frameworks for evaluating action research. This leads to discussion about whether the claims made by action research supporters can be justified.

The course is student‑focused and participatory. You’ll have opportunities to present your work. Readings may be tailored to your background and interests. Action research isn't just one method. So, the course focuses on reflection instead of providing step-by-step techniques.

Throughout the course, you’ll keep a reflective journal. This journal forms the basis of your assessment and supports class discussion.

By the end of the course, you’ll

• understand the practical and political issues in action‑oriented research across different settings
• develop a theoretical stance on action‑oriented and participatory research.

Contact hours and workload

This module is approximately 150 hours of work. This breaks down into about 12 hours of contact time and about 138 hours of independent study. The University may make minor variations to the contact hours for operational reasons, including timetabling requirements.

We regularly review our modules to incorporate student feedback, staff expertise, as well as the latest research and teaching methodology. We’re planning to run these modules in the academic year 2026/27. However, there may be changes to these modules in response to feedback, staff availability, student demand or updates to our curriculum.

We’ll make sure to let you know of any material changes to modules at the earliest opportunity.