Participatory Action Research (PAR)

Participatory Action Research (PAR) is a research approach that combines academic knowledge with the lived experience and expertise of community members to promote epistemic justice and social change. PAR aims to work in partnership with communities, to ask better research questions, explore issues that matter to everyone involved, and develop meaningful solutions together. PAR involves collaboration at every stage of the research process, from deciding what issues to focus on, to gathering and analysing data, and sharing the outcomes. Rooted in principles of equity, empowerment, and social justice, PAR creates space for co-producing knowledge that reflects the expertise, experiences, and priorities of those most affected.

At Reading, we’re committed to supporting community-based and participatory research that promotes meaningful social change. We’re building a growing network of researchers, practitioners, and community partners dedicated to promoting equity and social justice through research.

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Developed based on a pilot programme that brought together University staff, students, and community members, our provides practical guidance for anyone who may be interested in applying PAR into their work.

You can explore examples of current and past community-based research projects on the . Staff at Reading have also shared reflections and learning from the toolkit development and pilot programme in this insightful .