Contextural action research: Extending praxis methodology

Current social and institutional responses to turbulence and uncertainty lack the capacity to respond to change in ways which address the complexity inherent in human systems. The intention of this dissertation is to augment existing theory and practice associated with praxis methodology aimed at creating sustainable futures in the context of turbulent environments. An action research project focusing on community-based nature tourism in the Windward Islands of the Eastern Caribbean provides the context for this first extended discussion of contextural action research. This is an enabling methodology, which draws from the thinking of Gramsci, Freire, Lewin, and Trist, emphasizing the engagement of relevant interests and organizations associated with multi-dimensional problems. Consistent with the dialectic between practice and theory that informs praxis, this dissertation presents theory in practice, theory from practice, and new practice from theory.;Contextural action research is presented as a learning paradigm for social change which democratizes the construction and application of knowledge. Specifically, it is advocated as an appropriate methodology for addressing change in complex dynamical systems through its emphasis on contexturalism (the weaving together of parts) and self-organizing across boundaries. Contextural action research creates settings that facilitate new ways of connecting the domain of interests associated with a particular issue through dialogic process aimed at equitable collaboration and the coproduction of tangible outcomes. As a reflexive process, contextural action research generates learning and organizing that mirrors participants' analysis of the problem and its context.;Two important aspects of praxis are reframed by the concept of contexturalism: the expression and ownership of knowledge and the style of leadership consistent with such a process. New theory that has emerged from reflection on the praxis experience in the Windward Islands is associated with the political orientations of praxis and basic dualities that underlie change processes. Key insights relate to the congruence of contextural action research with such Jungian concepts as synchronicity, archetypes, and collective unconscious, and to metaphors drawn from complexity science. Using this theoretical framework, the implications associated with using contextural action research as a vehicle for empowered social change are discussed.