Epistemological Circles: reflections on a Freirian research approach

Abstract

In this article, we propose a theoretical reflection on the practice of qualitative research based on Freirian contributions. Our objective is to discuss the potential of Epistemological Circles for the construction of dialogical, critical, and committed investigations with social transformation. For this, we first present the concept of Culture Circles. following, think about how they are applied to the field of research, pointing to the elements that underlie such proposal. For Epistemological Circles, we adopt the idea that science, as an act of conscience, has intentions and commitments with the change. We emphasize that investigations need to enable the construction of dialogic spaces, recognition, and appreciation of knowledge, breaking with old crystallizations and hierarchy of knowledge. We conclude that it is from the horizontal meeting and dialogue that new knowledge, drenched in the world, is formed and enables a more conscious action in reality and scientific practice.