“They don’t take notes!” Tensions perceived by first-line workers in an action research project

Abstract

Purpose This study aims to emphasize the importance of taking into account the perspectives of prospective participants and identifying potential tensions in action research. Design/methodology/approach This paper reflects on a (participatory) action research (AR) project in which the first author was involved as an embedded researcher. The data were gathered through semi-structured interviews, field notes and observed project activities. The authors conducted a thematic analysis. Findings This paper thematically categorized four types of tensions between both groups. These were tensions connected to: internal facilitators giving guidance, project goals, top-down expectations and unfamiliarity with AR working formats. Practical implications Quintessential to AR is giving the less privileged a voice. For this to work, gaining a good understanding of their perspectives is crucial. Originality/value This paper challenges the implicit assumption that prospective participants of AR projects are always willing to participate.