At darvaja, a key methodology we use is critical participatory action research (CPAR). This is a research approach which combines critical theory with participatory action research. It's a collaborative process where researchers and community members work together to identify, analyse, and address social issues. We use this in our work with clients to design the work together and make it a collective and collaborative process.
Why is CPAR important?
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Empowerment: CPAR empowers our clients to become active participants in their own research and development at the organisation. By involving them in every stage of the process, it fosters a sense of agency and ownership.
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Social Justice: CPAR is rooted in a commitment to social justice. It seeks to challenge oppressive systems and promote equity and justice.
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Relevance: By working closely with communities, CPAR ensures that research is relevant and responsive to their needs. It avoids the pitfalls of top-down research that may be disconnected from the lived experiences of people.
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Knowledge Production: CPAR generates valuable knowledge that can be used to inform policy and practice. It is a way to challenge dominant narratives and produce alternative perspectives.
Key Characteristics of CPAR
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Collaboration: Allows darvaja consultants and participants at the organisation to work together to design work and learning questions.
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Critical Reflection: The process involves critical reflection on learning questions which are generated.
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Action-Oriented: CPAR is not just about understanding problems; it's about taking action to address them.
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Empowerment: The goal is to empower our clients to participate in social change.
CPAR is a powerful tool for social transformation. It can help to challenge oppressive systems, promote social justice, and create a more equitable world.
