Kontext och deltagande kunskapsprojekt : en kritisk reflektion
Keywords:
Drawing on 2o years of experience of involving marginalized single mothers in participatory knowledge projects, this article offers a personal and critical reflection on the importance of the contexts within which such projects are developed. Through concrete examples of projects, developed in different historical periods and welfare regimes, the author illustrates how the political and economic context can create both opportunities and barriers for participation of disadvantaged groups and the grassroots organisations that represents them. Some of the tension as well as benefits that might arise when more radical self-organised groups partner up with academic institutions are also highlighted. Finally, ethical questions regarding the ideals of involvement of marginalized groups within a welfare context where the time to participate is regulated and constrained are raised. Consequently, it is argued, there is a need for wider critical reflection and continous dialouge regarding how the fundamental principles of more radical traditions, both within research and social work, can be adapted and incorporated in new ways, whilst also learning from past experiences.