co-operative inquiry, student-led research, work integrated learning, fieldwork, social work
Internationally minimum standards for social work education specified by the International Federation of Social Workers include the ability to demonstrate a critical understanding of social research and the principles, ethics, and applications of scientific inquiry. Co-operative inquiry is a collaborative research methodology suited to field education research as, consistent with social work principles, it is respectful and participatory, and upholds the unique dignity of each person involved in the research. An inquiry process is grounded in the idea that research can be conducted with people, not on people. Co-operative inquiry highlights the principle of the equality of voices within the co-authoring process; this is made possible because students and academics have power over what is written and published. It brings students and academics together as co-authors, co-participants, and co-researchers. A community of trust is developed, combining participants’ values with their professional or personal knowledge and experience.
Considering the tensions and pressures inherent in neoliberal higher education, this paper will remind us of the codes of ethics of the Australian Association of Social Work, the Social Work Registration Board (CORU), and the Irish Association of Social Workers and emphasise the importance of collaboration and respect concerning social justice, and social theory research. The outcomes of three student inquiries will be shared, including how they led to students connecting to an international research network, presenting at international conferences, and publishing their work in international academic journals.
Student participant feedback indicates the value of their involvement in co-operative inquiry:
“Our research was unique as it was student-led and privileged the voices of students, not something that traditional research usually incorporates”