This talk will explore how action research and co-generative learning processes can revitalize democratic practices in working life, drawing inspiration from the legacy of the late Professor Morten Levin.

In the face of rapid technological change, organizational complexity, and shifting power relations, questions of participation, autonomy and learning are increasingly central to how we understand and shape work. Levin’s work offers a compelling framework for how research can be carried out with, not just on, practitioners — enabling local actors to develop insight, build capacity, and influence the systems they are part of.

This session presents key insights from recent research on co-generative learning and participatory organizational change. It highlights the importance of reflective practice, the role of the “friendly outsider,” and the challenges of power asymmetries in collaborative research. 

Concrete ideas and tools

Participants will take away concrete ideas and tools for how to design inclusive change processes, strengthen workplace learning, and create space for genuine participation – even in complex and hierarchical contexts.

About Hanne Finnestrand

Hanne Finnestrand is Associate Professor at the Norwegian University of Science and Technology (NTNU). Her research focuses on participatory organizational change, action research, and co-generative learning. 

Hanne has published on workplace democracy, knowledge production across boundaries, and the role of power and participation in organizational development. Her recent work includes a comprehensive reflection on the scholarly contributions of Morten Levin. Hanne is also Editor-in-Chief of Systemic Practice and Action Research (Springer).

Fun fact: Hanne Finnestrand sings alto in Embla, a women’s choir from Trondheim. The choir aims for first prizes in international competitions, but mostly, it’s about the joy of singing together and hitting the low notes with style.