Inclusive research as a site for lifelong learning: Participation in learning communities. Issue 1 (2nd January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Nind, Melanie
• Is Part Of: Studies in the education of adults. Volume 48:Issue 1(2016)
• Page Start: 23
• Page End: 37
• Publication Date: 2016-01-02
• Subjects: Inclusive research -- informal learning -- lifelong learning -- learning community -- learning disabilities -- participatory research; Adult education -- Great Britain -- Periodicals; 374.941
• DOI: 10.1080/02660830.2016.1155847
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0266-0830

Abstract

ABSTRACT: This paper explores the learning that goes on when adults with learning disabilities are involved in inclusive (participatory or emancipatory) research. Applying thematic and narrative re-analysis of data from a series of focus groups involving inclusive researchers talking about their research work indicates inclusive research is a rich site for learning. The nature of the new knowledge (know-what and know-how) about the process and products of inclusive research, as well as more transferrable interpersonal learning and development of problem-solving are examined. Participants had, in their involvement in inclusive research, learned to occupy new roles; their narratives are of important and largely enjoyable learning journeys. In an effort to theoretically situate such learning, the paper discusses the fit between the learning evident in the data and concepts of lifelong learning, informal learning, and community learning.