October 19 – Taking a Critical, Transformative Approach to Knowledge and Research
Class Content
How do we know what we know, and whose knowledge counts? In this class, we will critically examine how knowledge is produced, valued, and used in research. We will explore different ways of knowing, question the assumptions that shape research, and consider how research can challenge existing power structures and contribute to social and ecological change. We will also connect these discussions to students’ individual research projects, introduce the Methods Section assignment, and continue developing our group research project on campus-community food sovereignty.
Supplemental Readings and Resources
These optional readings and resources are included for anyone interested in exploring the topics from class in more depth. They are not required.
Presentation
Schedule
Welcome & Check-In
– Introduction and check-in
Taking a Critical, Transformative Approach to Knowledge and Research
– What do we know, and how do we know it?
– Ontology, epistemology, and different ways of knowing
– Knowledge, power, and whose perspectives are valued or overlooked
– Research assumptions, methods, and transformative possibilities
– Connecting these questions to individual research projects
Literature Review & Research Questions
– Present first assignment in (small groups)
– Connecting research questions to methodological choices
Methods Section Assignment
– Introduction to the assignment and expectations
– Research design, methods, procedures, and ethical considerations
– Justifying methodological choices using course readings
– Questions and discussion
Reading Discussions
In small groups, discuss your selected reading: What is the main argument, and what problem or question does the reading address?
What does the reading suggest about knowledge and different ways of knowing?
Whose knowledge or perspectives are valued, questioned, or overlooked?
What relationships or tensions does the reading identify between people, institutions, ecological systems, and power?
How might the reading influence the way we study sustainable foodscapes?
Group Research Project: Campus-Community Food Sovereignty
– Review the research questions and objectives
– Discuss the campus-farm interviews and World Café
– Form research teams and discuss next steps
Questions, Concerns & Comments
– Upcoming assignments and activities
– Questions, concerns, and comments