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PALAR Concepts, Models and Values

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Action Leadership
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Chapter Overview

This chapter focuses first on action learning (AL) concepts, features, terminology, programmes and projects and then on definitions of action research (AR) and participatory action research (PAR) to enhance both conceptual and practical understanding. I discuss essential characteristics, requirements and quality criteria of action research and the dialectical relationship between participatory action learning and action research (PALAR) as an integrated concept. I present various models of PALAR and discuss the values and worldviews inherent in a PALAR culture, and the reasons for success or failure of PALAR programmes and projects in various fields and countries. Here I argue that the value of PALAR includes its contribution to practical improvement in the workplace, concept/theory building, professional learning and growth, action leadership development, and community and organizational development/change.

SUCCESS is when I add value to MYSELF.

SIGNIFICANCE is when I add value to OTHERS.

John C. Maxwell (2004: 9)

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Correspondence to Ortrun Zuber-Skerritt .

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Zuber-Skerritt, O. (2011). PALAR Concepts, Models and Values. In: Action Leadership. Springer, Dordrecht. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-90-481-3935-4_2

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