Co-operative Inquiry

Conventional research methods often marginalise the voices of those most affected by the issues being studied, limiting the potential for meaningful, transformative change. In education, health, social care, community development and many other fields, there is a growing need for research that is inclusive, accessible, and responsive to real-world complexity.

This textbook offers a comprehensive introduction to co-operative inquiry: a participatory research methodology grounded in collaboration, reflection, and shared knowledge creation. Acting as a how-to guide and companion text, it supports readers in designing and conducting ethical, practice-based research that draws on lived experience as much as professional expertise. The authors demonstrate how co-operative inquiry can integrate action research and mixed methods to produce both nuanced and authentic insights.

With guidance from leading experts and emerging voices in the field, this book is an essential resource for ethical researchers at every career stage. It equips readers with the confidence, tools, and inspiration to generate impactful, equity-driven knowledge.

Monica Short is Coordinator of the International Network of Co-operative Inquirers (INCInq) and Senior Lecturer at Charles Sturt University.

Erica Russ is Associate Professor at Southern Cross University. She is a founding member of the INCInq.

Melissa Petrakis is Associate Professor and Group Director of the Social Work Innovation, Transformation and Collaboration in Health (SWITCH) Research Group in the Department of Social Work at Monash University.

Caroline Walters is Research Fellow and Teaching Associate in the Department of Social Work at Monash University.

Katrina Gersbach is Lecturer in Social Work and Human Services at Charles Sturt University.

Caroline Lambert is Senior Lecturer and Carer Perspective Researcher at RMIT University.

Emma Rush is Lecturer in Philosophy and Ethics at Charles Sturt University.

Rohena Duncombe is Lecturer at Charles Sturt University.

Elizabeth Reimer is Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Health at Southern Cross University.