Action Research: from Theory to Practice

Abstract

Action Research is a research approach that is constantly evolving in social sciences and management. Although this approach is deemed contentious, many positivist researchers have expressed their dissatisfaction and questioned its validity as a scientific methodology that adheres to rigorous research methods and standards. On the other hand, several researchers, particularly those who are considered practitioners of applied research, have discussed and defended action research as a viable methodology for generating knowledge, developing solutions, and contributing to the knowledge development of one's own, one's organization's, and one's community, while promoting and taking actions to solve business and socio-economic problems in a rapidly changing and unpredictably volatile environment. Historically, the validity of Action Research as a branch of epistemology has been debated in conjunction with the topic of the validity of Action Research in relation to traditional research. This research paper is an attempt to discuss and clarify the ambiguity behind the characteristics of the action research and present its most essential aspects and competitive advantages in different field, with strong emphasize on the role of researchers or practitioners and their active collaboration with organizations to generate sustainable action-based learning and integrated at the individual and organizational levels.