Upcoming workshop june 2009: Social Constructionist inquiry

Presenters: Prof. Dr. Dian Marie Hosking and Prof.Dr. Sheila McNamee,
Location: Utrecht, The Netherlands
Date: June 10 -12, 2009

This workshop will focus on modes of inquiry that blur the traditional distinction between research and social change (e.g., consultation, program development). We will explore what research from a constructionist orientation looks like, how it is different and similar to traditional, empirical modes of inquiry, and how research informs the everyday practices of all participants. Emphasis will be given to the transformative potential of inquiry. In particular, participatory research, appreciative inquiry, action research, and auto-ethnography will be used to make the case for widening participation and involvement in research in order to maximize the relevance and accessibility of studies. This theme resonates with the constructionist call to recognize the ways in which all social action rests within a matrix of relationships with other actors.

During this workshop, time will be spent exploring participants own contexts of inquiry and designing relational forms of practice that both serve the members of those contexts while contributing to our general understanding of a wide range of social practices. In other words, we will consider workshop participants’ research topics and design methods for producing research results as importantly contributing to the process of local change and development. To that end, this workshop will redefine research as an everyday practice with relevance beyond professional, scientific communities. This workshop is a valuable opportunity for students and practitioners engaged in research to engage in conversation about alternative modes of inquiry and what the process of inquiry, overall, can contribute to our daily lives.

For a short impression of last year's workshop, click here.

Practical information
Phd students including Taos/Tilburg Ph.D students are encouraged to attend, as are all others interested in practical applications of social constructionism. The workshop takes place in the Utrecht University School of Governance, Bijlhouwerstraat 6, 3511 ZC Utrecht, south in The Netherlands. The workshop begins at lunch on Wednesday and finishes late afternoon on Friday. 

Payment & Registration
If you wish to participate in this workshop please e-mail Dian Marie at d.m.hosking@uu.nl and please transfer the workshop fee to:

• Postbank number: 30.03.08, in the name of UU/Utrechtse School voor Bestuurs- en Organisatiewetenschap;
• BIC code is PSTBNL21; IBAN code is NL18PSTB0000300308. 
  
  PLEASE NOTE: When you make the transfer, please state that the money is to be attributed to: SAP code 243.210.089 – or the accountant will not know what the money is for.

• Taos Phd students¹: 250 euro (by May 8th); after May 8th: 275 euro
• Other students: 275 euro (by May 8th); after May 8th: 300 euro
• Non-students: 400 euro (by May 8th): after May 8th: 450 euro
• Unwaged: please get in touch.