Being Research: A Short Course on Participatory Action Research (PAR)
Next course: Montreal | October 16–18, 2026
Participatory Action Research is a way of experiencing research as a collective, creative, and transformative journey. Learn by doing, Connect & collaborate and Drive social impact to create sustainable change.
Choose the PAR Experience That Fits You
We offer three dynamic ways to explore Participatory Action Research (PAR), designed for individuals, organizations, and teams looking to integrate meaningful, community-driven research into their work
Immersive weekend retreat
PAR Training for Organizations
Online Course (Launching 2027!)
Research That Feels and Transforms
This course is designed for those who believe that research should be felt, lived, and experienced as a collective journey
A Practical Toolkit
Learn innovative PAR techniques that you can apply in your organization or community projects.
Learn by doing
Engage in dynamic, hands-on techniques. The research should be felt as a collective journey.
Drive social impact
Use PAR to create sustainable change.
A Global Network:
Connect with civil society practitioners committed to participatory development worldwide.
Step-by-Step Methods
Gain access to our exclusive guide on the creative techniques used throughout the course.
Connect & collaborate
Build meaningful relationships with peers and community actors.
What You Will Learn
Each course is a hands-on laboratory where research comes to life through participatory methods, fostering deep exploration, connection, and action.
- Introduce the values, principles and practices of PAR
- Outline how PAR can deepen learning
- Identify questions, and design research frameworks
- Use creative tools and experiential learning
- Explore tools to process and share PAR data
- Design and implement a PAR project
- Critically reflect on the ethical dimensions of PAR
- Learn how to dialogue with and meet stakeholders
- Develop skills in collaborative research design
Research that is felt and builds community
This course is open to anyone eager to explore participatory research. While no strict prerequisites are required, a background in research, community work, or social change can be helpful.
Course details:
- Live interactive sessions with experienced facilitators
- Hands-on exercises to apply PAR techniques in real time
- Case studies & best practices from around the world
- Exclusive course materials & resources
- A certificate of completion to showcase your new skills
What you will take from the course:
- A new toolkit on PAR to integrate in your organization or community project
- A network of civil society practitioners interested in participatory forms of development in their communities and around the world
- Access to the step-by-step guide for techniques used in the course
Who Should Attend:
- Professionals looking to integrate participatory methods into their work/organisations
- Researchers, students, and academics interested in community-based methods
- Community organizers and practitioners
Turn Knowledge into Impact
While there may be no strict prerequisites, a background in research or community work can be helpful
Introduction to PAR
Overview of the origins, principles, and significance of participatory research.
Methodologies and Techniques
Detailed look at the methods used in PAR including data collection and analysis strategies.
Practical Applications
Learn from real-world PAR projects what worked, what didn’t, how to apply key lessons and case studies.
Ethics and Community Engagement
Discussion of ethical considerations, power dynamics, and building trust with community partners.
Project Design and Implementation
Plan, execute, and evaluate a PAR project step by step, from ideation to action.
What Our Participants Say
Hear from past participants who have experienced firsthand how this course transformed their approach to research, collaboration, and social change
I love recrear! Thank you for creating spaces for humans to feel deeply, process creatively, and show up in the world in authentic ways.
I think the course broadened my scope on doing research in a more practical way, which is very useful for my work. Also it was very different than expected, which contributed to my enjoyment of the course, I was suprised, stepped into my growth zone and learned a lot (also about myself) by doing so.
I have so appreciated the course. The facilitation is skillful, heart-centered and joyful. Thank you.
Real stories. Real impact
Learn from experienced facilitators who live and breathe PAR. Our trainers bring a wealth of knowledge, hands-on experience, and a passion for co-creating meaningful change.
Gioel Gioacchino
Gioel is the Director of Research at Recrear, with 14+ years of experience in facilitation and action research worldwide. She holds an MPhil from Cambridge and a PhD from Sussex University’s IDS, where she studied how funding models impact Colombian youth organizations. As a co-founder of Recrear, she is dedicated to helping organizations transform their culture. A passionate writer, editor, and storyteller, she enjoys blending creative techniques in her work.
Quime Williams
Quime works at the intersection of civil society building, participatory action research (PAR), and organizational accompaniment. As a co-founder of Recrear, she co-designed its PAR methodology and implemented it globally. She has led strategic processes for Oxfam, FRIDA, VSO, and CIVICUS and trained politicians, media leaders, and civil society in Sri Lanka. She also co-facilitated a co-design process for women parliamentarians across Africa, MENA, and Asia-Pacific. An experienced facilitator, she helps groups find common ground and reconnect.
Fiammetta Wegner
Fia is the Director of Strategy and Learning at Recrear, specializing in participatory processes and organizational accompaniment. She co-designed Recrear’s participatory storytelling and accompaniment approaches and contributes to its Participatory Action Research techniques. With 10+ years of experience, she has applied PAR to research, MEL, and strategy across multiple regions. Her research focuses on power and civil society. A dancer and movement practitioner, she integrates experiential and creative methodologies.
Emilia Gonzalez
Emilia is an intercultural facilitator and researcher passionate about bridging community development, social justice, and academia. She has worked on youth-led research with NGOs, public service organizations, and interdisciplinary partnerships. As a first-generation Colombian immigrant, she advocates for newcomer youth. With an MSc from McGill, she uses participatory and visual methods to explore migration and resilience. She also supports grassroots groups in Montreal as an organizational health consultant.
Yasmine Zeid
Yasmine is an Egyptian activist and researcher focused on social movements and combating GBV. With seven years of experience, she has worked with the UN, the African Union, and civil society at various levels. She holds a master’s in Participation, Power, and Social Change from IDS, UK. Her work spans grassroots mobilization, including leading HarassMap’s Community Unit in Egypt and roles at UN Women and WFP. She excels in connecting field stories with global development strategies using PAR methods.
Secure your place now and be part of an experiential learning experience.
Got questions? We’ve got answers!
Here, you’ll find everything you need to know about the course, from registration details to what you can expect during the training. If you don’t see your question here, feel free to reach out we’re happy to help!
General Information
Who is this course for?
This course is designed for researchers, community organizers, students, and professionals interested in integrating participatory methods into their work.
What are the different training options available?
We offer three types of PAR training:
- Weekend PAR Retreat – A 3-day immersive experience.
- 5-day Training for Organizations – A tailored training program for teams or collectives.
- Online Course (Launching in 2026) – A virtual program for those who want to learn remotely.
How do I register for the next course?
You can register for our next course here.
What will I gain from this course?
Participants will develop skills in designing and implementing PAR projects, critically reflecting on ethical and practical aspects, and engaging with community partners for action-oriented research.
What language is the course taught in?
We offer courses in Spanish and English.
When will the online course be available?
The online course is launching in 2026. If you’re interested, leave your email, and we’ll notify you when it’s open for enrollment.
Can I stay connected with other participants?
Yes! We encourage alumni to stay engaged through our network of civil society practitioners, peer learning groups, and online discussions.
Registration and Logistics
What is the cost of the course?
Pricing varies depending on the type of training. Please check the registration link for specific details or contact us for customized team training rates.
When and where is the next in-person training?
Our next in-person course will take place in Barcelona from June 1st to June 4th.
How can my organization request a 5-day training?
For tailored team trainings, please contact us at recrearinternational@recrear.info
Is there financial aid or a scholarship available?
We occasionally offer financial aid for participants who demonstrate need and commitment. Reach out to us to explore possible options.
What topics are covered in the course?
The course includes:
- Introduction to PAR principles and values
- Methodologies and tools for data collection and analysis
- Practical applications and case studies
- Ethical considerations and community engagement
- PAR project design and implementation
What kind of exercises and activities will we do?
We use creative tools, experiential learning, and group discussions to explore participatory research. Expect interactive exercises, role-playing, and reflective practices.
Will I receive materials after completing the course?
Yes! You’ll gain access to:
- A toolkit on PAR to integrate into your work
- A step-by-step guide on techniques used in the course
- A network of practitioners working with participatory methods
© 2026 Recrear International