This SAGE Handbook presents contemporary, cutting-edge approaches to participatory research and inquiry. It has been designed for the community of researchers, professionals and activists engaged in interventions and action for social transformation, and for readers interested in understanding the state of the art in this domain. The Handbook offers an overview of different influences on participatory research, explores in detail how to address critical issues and design effective participatory research processes, and provides detailed accounts of how to use a wide range of participatory research methods. Chapters cover pioneering new participatory research techniques including methods that can be operationalised at scale, approaches to engaging the poorest and most marginalised, and ways of harnessing technologies to increase the scope of participation, amongst others.

Drawing upon a wide range of disciplines, and bringing together contributing authors from across the globe, this Handbook will be of interest to an international readership from across the broad spectrum of social sciences, including social policy, development studies, geography, sociology, criminology, political science, health and social care, education, psychology, business & management. It will also be an insightful and practical resource for facilitators, community workers, and activists for social change.

Part 1: Introduction

Part 2: Key Influences and Foundations of Participatory Research

Part 3: Critical Issues in the Practice of Participatory Research

Part 4: Methods and Tools

Part 4.1: Dialogic and Deliberative Processes

Part 4.2: Digital Technologies in Participatory Research

Part 4.3: Participatory Forms of Action Orientated Research

Part 4.4: Visual and Performative Methods

Part 4.5: Participatory Monitoring, Evaluation and Learning 

Part 4.6: Mixing and Mashing Participatory and Formal Research

Part 5: Final Reflections