Integrating participatory approaches in research: Power, dilemmaes and potentials

Abstract

This article introduces and discusses participatory approaches in research as an epistemological and methodological contribution to research in general and more specifically to diaconal research. I outline characteristics of inclusive research and delve into the opportunities that participatory research offers interdisciplinary research. Next, I introduce and discuss ethical dilemmas that may arise with these inclusive approaches. Finally, I highlight how integrating participatory research approaches can transform diaconal research. I show how this transformation can take place through the codevelopment of new knowledge by citizens who are recognized as subjects of knowledge. The discussion is informed by an example from my own research, a historical study of the Christian diaconal practice for deaf persons with disabilities in a Norwegian context. Drawing on experiences from collaboration in this project, I discuss the spaces of action that researchers have when aiming at inclusion in their research. The article is a contribution to the development of methodological and epistemological issues in participatory research discourses.