Which approach is best defined as a collaborative method aimed at improving practices?

The best-defined approach as a collaborative method aimed at improving practices is action research. This method emphasizes the active participation of practitioners in identifying problems, implementing solutions, and reflecting on the outcomes. It involves cycles of planning, executing, observing, and reflecting, allowing teams to collaboratively address issues and enhance their practices over time.

Action research is particularly valuable in educational and organizational settings, where continuous improvement is essential. This approach not only fosters collaboration among stakeholders but also promotes a culture of inquiry, where the insights gained directly inform practice.

In contrast, qualitative research focuses primarily on exploring and understanding social phenomena, often through interviews or focus groups, without the same direct aim of collaborative practical improvement. Experimental research typically involves controlled experimentation to determine causal relationships and may not inherently involve collaboration among practitioners. Observational studies are designed to gather data by watching subjects in their natural environment but do not directly engage participants in a process of joint inquiry or improvement.