Shifting dynamics: The evolving relationship between researchers, participants, and organizational systems
Summary
Trust in traditional expertise is waning, while collaborative, networked models of knowledge creation and impact are emerging. Focus is shifting toward inclusivity and equity, as a reimagined relationship between researchers, participants, and organizations emerges. These changes in turn reflect broader cultural shifts. This session explores the context and drivers of these evolutions, highlighting the most significant changes in research for a generation that researchers need to prepare for.
Key Insights
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Researchers must shift from solely producing knowledge to building relational power to increase influence.
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Participant experiences are increasingly characterized by vulnerability, emotional isolation, and mistrust of authority.
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Social media and digital platforms contribute to fragmentation of truth and polarized information bubbles.
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Research is inherently political and navigating multiple agendas is essential for impact.
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Speaking for others is an act of power that requires humility and awareness of context.
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Understanding participants requires qualitative, relational, and participatory approaches beyond surveys.
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Relational power involves empathy and curiosity toward stakeholders within organizations as well as users.
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Trust networks inside organizations can be mapped and leveraged to activate change collaboratively.
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Pluralism and holding differences without forcing resolution is vital in today’s research landscape.
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Researchers need to trust their relational skills internally, not just their technical expertise, to realize impact.
Notable Quotes
"No matter where you sit on the political spectrum, it was hard not to be met with suspicion and distrust at every turn."
"We are people who are chosen — our craft is to interact with other people, and that’s not what we’re seeing in the world around us."
"Research is no longer impartial; we’re navigating a changing landscape of trust."
"Speaking for others is always an act of power. It doesn’t mean we can’t do it, but we have to recognize that."
"Understanding is not a scientific process, it’s relational, personal, human, and qualitative."
"The role of research is changing from seeing participants as users to seeing them as co-authors of the story."
"Relational power requires empathy and curiosity about a wide range of stakeholders, not just the users."
"Knowledge sits on a shelf. Understanding is an active way to engage and connect people."
"We need to build reliance and connection across individuals to help balance power and build trust."
"Our value as a research community is in bridging understanding and driving change through relational power."
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