From a Product -- to a Process-Oriented 'Diffusion' of Sociological Knowledge: An Initial Attempt

A short exploration of theoretical issues involved in scientific knowledge diffusion, in which product-orientation, ie, the publication of results in scientific journals read by the scientific community, is considered inadequate. Especially for sociology, the question of achieving change from knowledge is important. A research project among the wives of foreign workers is mentioned, which allowed Rs' input into the ongoing study, & engaged them in an ongoing learning process. A core group of 8 researchers & Rs planned & discussed the relevant theoretical & empirical phases of the work, while a project group of about 30 persons was kept involved by periodic notices & discussion groups. It is noted that the cognitive & organizational resources of participants determine the degree of decentralization that can be achieved by this method. AA Tr & Modified by S. Whittle.