Transformative action research for a rural African university

Abstract

The discussion of this paper is exploratory in its intent and makes direct reference to a rural university, however, for ethical considerations, uses the pseudonym, University of Africa (UNAF). It seeks to highlight a kind of research practice that has been proven to encourage research activity of individuals affiliated with higher institutions of learning as well as, in deprived environments, bring about desired development. Critical action research and reflective practice has proven able to encourage required research productivity. This practice has been a basis of personal and professional transformation in the field of education for many centuries. Making knowledge useful and bringing about change is integral in action research approaches. The paper partly draws from research conducted with graduate students of a rural-based university. Employing action research methodologies the students critically reflected on their personal contribution towards bringing about positive change to their own teaching and to the wider university environment.

Keywords: Critical Reflective Practice. Living Theory. Action-Research. Transformative Education