Participatory Research - A journey beyond conventional Research

About the Course

Participatory Research (PR) emerged globally as a response to the limitations of conventional, top–down research that often excluded the voices of communities and marginalised groups. Across Latin America, Africa, Asia, and Indigenous societies worldwide, alternative knowledge systems have shaped how communities analyse their realities and co-create solutions.

This course provides a foundational understanding of Participatory Research as a global movement, exploring how it challenges traditional research paradigms and foregrounds community knowledge, co-learning, and democratic participation.

Through this course, learners will gain exposure to:

• How PR emerged internationally as a counter-narrative to extractive research
• Key principles and ethics underlying participatory research
• Global examples of participatory methodologies
• Practical steps and tools for initiating participatory research in diverse contexts

Objectives of the Course

• Understand the global history and emergence of Participatory Research
• Identify the limitations of classical research and why alternative methods evolved
• Explain the core principles and values of Participatory Research
• Understand key participatory tools used internationally
• Understand how PR contributes to empowerment, social justice, and collective action

Who is this Course For

This course is designed for students, researchers, grassroots workers, development practitioners, researchers, NGO workers, field facilitators, and community leaders interested in socially engaged, people-centred research.

Learning Approach

The course is structured into multiple modules providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of key concepts through interactive and engaging modes of learning, including text, videos, audios, case studies, graphics, assignments, and additional reading materials. It is advised that you complete this course in a quiet environment, to enhance your learning. Additionally, a stable and high-speed internet connection is essential to ensure smooth access to all course content.

You will have two weeks to complete the entire course, from the date of signing-up and receiving your login details. You can save your progress at any point and come back to the course within this two-week period. You can use different devices to complete the course, such as laptops/ desktops, smartphones, and tablets.

Upon successful completion, including completing all assignments, learners will receive a certificate.

People Behind the Course