Collaborative inquiry : reciprocity and authenticity

Within new paradigm research, collaborative inquiry (CI) is used as an umbrella term to encompass genres of research that are participatory, democratic and reflective in design, method and dissemination. The principles embedded in participatory methodologies emphasise inclusive participation within a mutually beneficial research project where deep interpretive processes occur and members co-construct knowledge. At the heart of CI is a call for research to be a catalyst for action and, therefore, for change. In this chapter we argue that two significant governing principles of CI are the notions of reciprocity and authenticity. Through both these principles, individuals and communities can become empowered to understand, produce knowledge and bring about active positive change in their own lives. We describe and analyse the roles of reciprocity and authenticity in collaborative inquiry, exploring issues of power and ethics as they relate to the epistemological and methodological foundations of CI research.