Integrative Action and Learning by Developing (LbD): Canonical Action Research

This study examines the setting of canonical action research in an integrative action process within Learning by Developing (LbD) culture. The evaluation phases of this action research are based on the evaluation transactions of the Finnish Higher Education Evaluation Council (FINHEEC) and furthermore the canonical evaluation to the research is produced. Canonical is defined as “exactness” or “strict precision” and it is understood as “a generally accepted principle” in the context of the widely practised and reported form of action research in information systems literature. This study develops and tests integrative action and design principles in the research and practice of implementing the three statutory tasks of Finnish universities of applied sciences: education; research and development; and regional development. The term canonical is used to formalize the association of the iterative, rigorous and collaborative process oriented model of action research.