Action research for developing social workers' research capacity

Abstract

We reflect on the action research process implemented in assisting the development of a culture of practitioner enquiry amongst social workers in social services agencies, and highlight the overall outcomes of the intervention. The paper outlines the rationale and process for undertaking an action research process with social services professionals in an attempt to stimulate practitioner research. It discusses the project experiences in two separate sections, particularly highlighting the ripple effects of the initiative, and the development of ‘networked mentoring’ within the learning nest of the project.

Keywords:

• action research
• networked mentoring
• social services
• partnerships
• practice‐based research
• innovative practice model

Acknowledgements

The authors want to acknowledge the contribution of other members of the GRIP team to the project on which this article is based: Deborah Yates, Liz Beddoe, Phil Harington and Glenda Light, as well as the practice teams that participated in the initiative. The project proper was funded by the Families Commission, Ministry of Social Development (SPEaR) and the ASB Trusts in partnership with Aotearoa New Zealand Association of Social Workers.