Becoming a Practitioner-Researcher: A Gestalt Approach to Holistic Inquiry

Learning from the workplace, reflection on practice and lifelong learning today are acknowledged as central to effective continuing professional development. This book is designed as an indispensable guide to anyone undertaking investigations in complex or changing organisational settings. In contrast to strategies based on the scientific method and the use of empirical evidence, the Gestalt approach places investigators at the centre of their own practice. It aims to build a picture of awareness by prioritising how people perceive, feel and act. By way of practical encouragement and in response to the reflections and questions raised, examples of entries within an ongoing practitioner-research journal are provided throughout the text. There are also mini case studies to clarify key points, plus three extended case studies designed to illuminate the real-life drama of being a researcher. All professionals who work with people and groups will find this book invaluable. The models and approaches described in the text have evolved from the author’s work over many years with managers and organisational consultants, doctorate and masters students, and such people-facing professions as nursing, mental health and social workers, teachers, counsellors and psychotherapists.