What is the role of research in nowadays society?

With such a world in flux, how can we produce relevant knowledge that can assist us in understanding society and promote innovation and social change?

Daily we are confronted with systemic challenges. The rapid pace of change promotes the proliferation of diverse values, beliefs, and ways of being. Confronted with such diversity, it becomes impossible to avoid conflict – our own beliefs clash with other’s beliefs. In addition to the mounting challenge of clashing ideological perspectives, the institutions that have served as foundation for what counts as good, true, and real are also called into question, teetering on the precipice of obsolescence. The educational system, for example, is designed for a world that no longer exists. We face unprecedented challenges in the economy, grapple with issues related to climate change, sexual and gender identity, religious freedom, healthcare, poverty and more. To address these critical issues, a new understanding of research – and a new way of engaging in research – is required.

In a moment when technology, globalization, and concerns about shrinking resources are paramount, we need creative and innovative forms of research. In order to tackle the complex challenges we are facing, our modes of inquiry must focus on imaginative, inventive, and resourceful methods. Our focus is on creativity and innovation as a fundamental part of the process of conducting research.

The Constructionist-Design Framework offers a fresh perspective on research. The approach looks at the world and people as an interconnected ecosystem. In this approach to research, we take relational processes as primary.

Celiane and Sheila spoke about these matters during their book launch in Amsterdam and Breda (The Netherlands). Curious? Read more in their book here