Shifting from an overly technical, simplistic view of teaching in the 1980s, supervision and staff development experts are gradually recognizing that teaching is a complex, situation-specific, and dilemma-ridden endeavor. Researchers are now exploring three elements of reflection (cognition, critical thinking, and narrative inquiry) undertaken by…

This article summarizes the views on action research, expressed in this issue, with regard to differing purposes and uses, apparent trends, and possible contributions to educational reform efforts. (IAH)

A participatory action research project discovered that Honduran women farmers would like more agricultural training but are impeded by cultural perceptions, literacy level, mixed-gender groups, access to resources, and family responsibilities. Recommendations for sensitizing community leaders to the needs of women were made. (SK)

A two-year participatory action research project involved Canadian and Filipino popular theater and development organizations in improving awareness of environmental issues and creating an education performance on community sustainability issues. Issues of time, equity, and cultural difference arose. (SK)

Development can be either incremental or discontinuous, the latter leading to liberatory action. There is a fundamental dilemma involved. On the one hand, educators are trying to change people, forming unavoidable power relations. At the same time, they cannot fully predict the consequences of their efforts. (SK)

Examines the issue of validity in action research and how it affects methodology. (ZWH)

Action science focuses on unexamined beliefs that drive action, evaluating behavior for consistency and validity against beliefs and meaning systems. One goal is to move from single-loop to double-loop learning. Critical issues include its seemingly therapeutic nature, the problem of free and informed choice, and facilitator competence. (SK)

Using guided apprenticeships in cognitive and social development and action research, a nonformal education project focused on developing strategic thinking, team values, and internal locus of control in 20 South African industrial participants. Increased self-confidence, better communication/relationship skills, and a broader knowledge base were…

An action research project investigating the Assessment of Prior Experiential Learning at the University of Kent found difficulties in reconciling student needs with pressure to concentrate on experiences relevant to higher education. There was also tension between student needs and institutional requirements for the format of portfolios. (SK)

Discusses a new approach to studying the principalship that embodies a dialectic of biography and autobiography. The head (or principal) is not regarded as merely the subject of another's research but rather as a full partner within the research process. The article discusses the full partnership idea against the backdrop of Great Barr Grant…

Participants in the Cornell Cooperative Extension 4-H Youth Development Program ranked concept maps of the meaning of the program's new vision and mapped their own perceptions. Differing perspectives were refined into a shared vision and highlighted the need for understanding client characteristics and the social climate of the program. (SK)

The field of behavior analysis has not learned how to develop interventions that rely on positive reinforcement for all participants, including the normal adults who implement them. Thus, the field has not learned how to avoid evoking countercontrol. Establishment of collaborative relationships with the people targeted for help is suggested. (JDD)

Reports on action research project conducted by major labor union and university department of social work to assist dislocated workers. Notes that partnership of union-trained peer counselors and social work faculty and students combined research study with providing direct service to displaced workers, assisting in organizing project, and…

The British "Older and Wiser" project demonstrated the need for educational opportunities for older adults from minority groups. The double barriers of ageism and racism faced by these adults must be addressed. (SK)

The University of New Mexico's Community and Regional Planning Program worked with two border towns that share water resources--Columbus (New Mexico) and Puerto Palomas (Chihuahua, Mexico)--to help them prepare a community comprehensive plan needed for water-project funding. The program conducted action research involving local schools and people…