Clausen

Communicating Action Research Knowledge: A Canadian Case Study

Kurt Clausen, Nipissing University, North Bay, ON, Canada

Abstract

An important facet of the action research cycle for many practitioners concerns the dissemination of findings. While results may be used solely to solve specific issues, many researchers make use of peer-reviewed journals as a means of enlightening a larger audience with their conclusions and caveats. However, few who publish in these journals have an understanding of the pressures and fragilities these institutions face, especially those related to action research. This study examines a case study of one Canadian journal (The Canadian Journal of Action Research) as it endeavors to publish volumes on a regular basis while balancing the many economic, social and political pressures that threaten its existence. It traces the history of the journal from its inception in 1998, examining the reasons for its creation, its originating aims, and personnel. It then relates an overview of its evolving structure, mandate, support and reader base up to present-day.

Key words: Journals, Canada, Case Study, Knowledge Dissemination, Knowledge Mobilization