Researching Ones Own Clinical Practice: Managing Multiple Roles in an Action Research Project

Abstract

Action Research is a useful approach for practitioners who want to develop or improve on their everyday activity, while simultaneously contributing to a scientific body of knowledge. Action Researchers need to be able to reflect critically on their actions and interpretations, and be aware of their biases. This becomes increasingly complex and important when the researcher is engaged in multiple roles during the research process. This paper describes some of the dilemmas encountered by a music therapist using Action Research to develop a music therapy consultation protocol while simultaneously gathering data for a thesis towards a PhD in Music. The use of a research journal as an aid to self-understanding is discussed.