The tree of life as a methodological metaphor

Edited book (chapter)

Baynes, Renee. 2013. "The tree of life as a methodological metaphor." Midgley, Warren, Trimmer, Karen and Davies, Andy (ed.) Metaphors for, in and of education research . Newcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom. Cambridge Scholars Publishing. pp. 145-155
Chapter Title

The tree of life as a methodological metaphor

Book Chapter CategoryEdited book (chapter)
ERA Publisher ID1417
Book TitleMetaphors for, in and of education research
Authors
AuthorBaynes, Renee
EditorsMidgley, Warren, Trimmer, Karen and Davies, Andy
Page Range145-155
Chapter Number10
Number of Pages11
Year2013
PublisherCambridge Scholars Publishing
Place of PublicationNewcastle Upon Tyne, United Kingdom
ISBN9781443843980
Abstract

The Tree of Life is an ancient motif that appears in many cultures and religions. The Tree is symbolic of the interconnected nature of our world(s) and is often used as a reminder of the sacredness of life and its connection to the earth. This chapter uses the Tree of Life from a Native American worldview as a metaphor for a critical participatory action research methodology. I explore the multifaceted nature of being a practitioner of this methodology from the perspective of a university researcher working with a group of school teachers. Critical participatory action research as a method often is reliant on an emergent design and a practitioner is never quite sure what is around the corner in a project. The Tree of Life metaphor can provide guidance and help the practitioner stay faithful to their original intent and the project's aims.

ANZSRC Field of Research 2020390307. Teacher education and professional development of educators
500407. Studies in religious traditions (excl. Eastern, Jewish, Christian and Islamic traditions)
500311. Philosophical psychology (incl. moral psychology and philosophy of action)
Public Notes

© 2013 by Warren Midgley, Karen Trimmer and Andy Davies and contributors. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted, in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording or otherwise, without the prior permission of the copyright owner.
Chapter 10.

Byline AffiliationsCentre for Australian Indigenous Knowledges
Institution of OriginUniversity of Southern Queensland
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