Notes toward a philosophy of action learning research

Abstract

The philosophical foundations of action learning research have not received a great deal of attention. In the context of action learning postgraduate and professional programmes in universities, articulation of a philosophy of action learning research seems timely and appropriate. This article explores a philosophy of action learning research, grounded in the work of Revans. It contends that, within the new paradigms of research that are providing alternatives to traditional research paradigms, Revans provides the grounds for such philosophy of action learning research. His praxeology, learning formula and scientific method provide rich foundations for the formulation, implementation and generation of actionable knowledge.

Keywords:

• action learning
• philosophy of action learning research
• research methodology
• Revans