Social impact and the justification of action research knowledge

Abstract

Generalization in research takes the form of statements where knowledge is claimed to be valid for objects beyond those actually studied. Can action research knowledge, with its emphasis on cooperation between research and those concerned, apply this notion? Several action researchers seem to answer this question in the negative in the sense that they introduce specific measures to support the broad application of knowledge emanating from action research, such as locating projects within networks, working with leaders who can carry the knowledge to further users, organizing the project as large scale events, and more. The purpose of this article is to discuss some of these measures with a view to bringing them together in a broader perspective on how to make action research knowledge reach out in society, with participative constructivism as the core concept.