Part 5 Some interim conclusions
methodology
Ethics
The state of the literature
methodology
An exploration of Action Research methodology has convinced me that it is a flexible system with unique benefits, wholly appropriate to being applied to the practice of internet group work, particularly to the development of Communities of Practice and the practice of facilitation. I have also now satisfied any qualms that there may be major discrepancies between the underlying philosophy and my own personal beliefs. Indeed, the view of an interconnected and complex reality combined with an understanding that purely quantitative formal metrics and logic are insufficient, is a good match.
Ethics
Ethical considerations really need to be examined in each specific context. One of the best ways to ensure sound ethical practice both in deed and in perception is by functioning as a participant researcher, who understands the concerns and unique culture of other participants better than the passive external observer.
The state of the literature
There are some promising indications that Action Research has good potential for application to Internet research in general, to distributed COPS and online facilitation but at this stage, little sign that this potential has yet been explored or put to practical use. This could be for a number of reasons, including the possibility that the search has not yet been exhausted. The concept of a Wiki as a shared artefact also builds encouragement for the current research plan.
methodology
Ethics
The state of the literature
methodology
An exploration of Action Research methodology has convinced me that it is a flexible system with unique benefits, wholly appropriate to being applied to the practice of internet group work, particularly to the development of Communities of Practice and the practice of facilitation. I have also now satisfied any qualms that there may be major discrepancies between the underlying philosophy and my own personal beliefs. Indeed, the view of an interconnected and complex reality combined with an understanding that purely quantitative formal metrics and logic are insufficient, is a good match.
Ethics
Ethical considerations really need to be examined in each specific context. One of the best ways to ensure sound ethical practice both in deed and in perception is by functioning as a participant researcher, who understands the concerns and unique culture of other participants better than the passive external observer.
The state of the literature
There are some promising indications that Action Research has good potential for application to Internet research in general, to distributed COPS and online facilitation but at this stage, little sign that this potential has yet been explored or put to practical use. This could be for a number of reasons, including the possibility that the search has not yet been exhausted. The concept of a Wiki as a shared artefact also builds encouragement for the current research plan.