Participatory Action Research (PAR) The general research methodology we use is Participatory Action Research (PAR). This methodology is based on paradigms taken from critical theory and constructivism, (1) and refers to the ways in which research is conducted and knowledge is gained, using various qualitative and quantitative methods (2). Unlike positivistic research, which is based on the assumption that the world is a reality that can be objectively observed and measured, this research approach assumes that the observers will also impose their preconceived values on the study's observations and that those observed are actively involved in the research process (3, 4). By critically examining established policies and practices, this research approach creates results focused on change, using cyclical and feedback processes in relation to practical topics (5). PAR has been defined as: “A participatory process concerned with developing practical knowledge in pursuit of worthwhile human purposes. It seeks to combine action and reflection, theory and practice in participation with others, in the pursuit of practical solutions to issues of pressing concern to people, and more generally the flourishing of individuals and their communities” (6). By using Participatory Action Research as our methodological basis, we expect to: 1) generate new knowledge that can be used across projects 2) obtain practice-oriented results, relevant to the participants 3) educate both researchers and participants 4) present and verify the results obtained during individual projects 5) develop and verify methods that may help to optimise the research process (16) References 1. McGregor SLT, Murmane JA. Paradigm, methodology and method: Intellectual integrity in consumer scholarship. Int J Consum Stud. 2010;34(4). 2. Crotty M. The foundation of social research : meaning and perspective in the research process. St.Leonards, NSW: Allen and Unwin; 1998. 3. What is Participatory Action Research? [Internet]. 1998. 4. Baum F, MacDougall C, Smith D. Participatory action research. J Epidemiol Community Health. 2006;60(10):854-7. 5. Whitehead D, Taket A, Smith P. Action research in health promotion. Health Educ J. 2003;62(1):5-22. 6. Reason P, Bradbury H. The SAGE Handbook of Action Research. Participative Inquiry and Practice. 2nd ed. London: Sage Publications; 2008.