Action Leadership Within a Participatory Paradigm

Chapter Overview

This chapter draws conclusions from all previous chapters in this book into a coherent argument that early in this twenty-first century, when neo-liberalism and managerialism are dominant forces in much of the world we need to shift the dominant mindset towards a participatory paradigm of action learning, action research and action leadership to improve human and social conditions for ourselves, others and future generations. I argue that participatory action learning and action research (PALAR) can best facilitate the collaborative learning and shared democratic leadership required for individuals, groups and whole organizations and communities. This argument is evidenced by my own, my colleagues’ and other authors’ experience and research and summarized in two new models, one for the advancement of PALAR praxis and project development and the other for action leadership towards a participatory paradigm – the title of this book. I also suggest a new genre for PALAR writing as developed in this book.

We cannot hold a torch to light another’s path without brightening our own.

Ben Sweetland cited in Maxwell (2004: 67)