Beyond objectivity and subjectivity: the transformative potential of social pedagogical research

Research in the field of pedagogy, particularly pedagogy in social contexts, is confronted with a constant dilemma concerning its methodological research paradigms and the relationship between research and practice. The following reflections seek to demon- strate that rather than this being a specific issue of this discipline which would constitute an inferior academic status, the dilemma has wider significance for contemporary research approaches. Re- search approaches need to be conceptualised in relation to their wider social and political context and overcome the polarisation between subjectivity and objectivity. Reflecting on the social di- mension and responsibility of pedagogy can give a lead in this re- gard.