First-, second- and third-person values-based ethics in educational action research: personal resonance, mutual regard and social responsibility

Abstract

In this article, we pose two questions. What is the process of valuing in the structure of human knowing? And, how might individual values become collective values in the context of educational action research? For our answer we explore how first-, second- and third-person practices form the foundation in values-based ethics in action research. The first-person action research component involves the articulation of a personal set of values that inform practice through a structured ethical reflection process. Second-person practice builds upon this process to create a shared set of values and to align them to specific points in a collaborative research process. Finally, as a third-person process, the combination of first- and second-person practices contributes a framework for developing a common understanding and public dialogue regarding values-based ethics for action research.

Key words:

• Action research
• structured ethical reflection
• value ethics
• first-person action research
• second-person action research