Prticipatory Action Research (Facilitator of Participatory Changes)

Participatory Action Research is regarded as a new approach in Social Sciences and Psychology. In this form of research, the individuals involved in the research project are not merely a subject of the test or a member of the statistical society, but have a close cooperation with the facilitator of the research (researcher). In this type of research, action and knowledge have a direct relation. The main aim is to attract the participant to bring about change in the current situation. Participants are usually those of the lower social status. Trust, reliance and close cooperation not only improve the current situation, but also turn the participants into active, dynamic, powerful, decision maker and critic individuals.
Presenting the Participatory Action Research and its factors, the present article notes the differences between the latter researches with the other common researches in the field of Social Sciences. A review on the philosophical basis and epistemological and universal principles of this research illuminates its paradigmatic status. A brief explanation on the instructions of a Participatory Action Research can help the reader in practice.