Participatory Research Methods
Training for academics and researchers
Urban Wilderness CIC delivers participatory research methods training for researchers, postgraduate students and practitioners who want to develop more inclusive, creative and community-engaged approaches to academic inquiry.
As an artist-led organisation working across Stoke-on-Trent since 2018, we have extensive experience using socially engaged arts practice to explore how people connect with place, environment and each other. Our work is grounded in collaboration with universities and cultural organisations, and we regularly co-design research projects, creative consultations and pilot studies with academic partners.
This training introduces participants to the principles and possibilities of participatory research, with a focus on building confidence, expanding methodological toolkits and understanding how to work ethically and responsively with communities.
Why Participatory Research?
Participatory research brings together research and action, inviting communities to shape questions, processes and outcomes. It recognises that lived experience holds expertise, and that shared decision-making produces richer, more relevant insights.
Ultimately, participatory research is about relationships and power — shifting traditional hierarchies and creating space for people to influence the issues that affect their lives.
What the Training Covers
1. Researcher as Facilitator
Participants examine how to move from directing research to supporting participation, through relationship-building, active listening and shared ownership.
2. Participatory & Action Research Frameworks
An introduction to simple, adaptable models that support planning, acting, observing and reflecting throughout a participatory research process.
3. Ethics, Safeguarding & Responsible Practice
Clear guidance on creating safe, respectful research environments, ensuring consent, and gathering data responsibly.
4. Inclusive & Creative Engagement Methods
Approaches that make research feel accessible — using creative prompts, place-based activities and inclusive communication strategies.
5. Developing Shared Principles for Participation
Collaborative exercises that help groups define shared expectations, values and ways of working together.
Our Approach
Urban Wilderness draws on years of collaborative, place-based action research with young people, schools, communities and academic partners. Training is illustrated through real case studies from our work in parks, neighbourhood spaces and heritage sites across the region.
Reflective activities throughout the session help participants identify:
the real-life situations they hope to improve
where power sits within their research context
the strengths they bring as facilitators
the support they may need in future projects
By the end of the workshop, participants leave with greater confidence, practical tools and a clearer understanding of how to embed participation meaningfully within their own research practice.