Conclusion: Critical and Relational Action Research for Policy Change and Sustainability Transitions

This chapter provides a cross-analysis of the critical-relational dynamics in the ten action research settings featured in this volume. We reflect on the diversity of action research approaches and the ways in which criticality and relationality are interpreted and enacted. We then provide a detailed discussion of what we can learn from the chapters about the different elements of our guiding framework for critical-relational action research—the starting point; multiple roles and relationships; hegemonic structures, cultures, and practices; and reflexivity, impact, and change. Finally, we identify key issues for future action research in policy analysis and transition research.