Methodological perspectives on composite narrative cases in action research

This article examines the methodological possibilities and tensions of using composite narrative cases (CNC) within action research. Building on a Scandinavian, dialogically oriented research tradition, we demonstrate how CNC can support collaborative inquiry and shared meaning-making, thereby fostering participant engagement and a sense of shared ownership. The article argues that CNC can distill complex empirical material into accessible narratives while preserving anonymity and practice-based relevance. At the same time, it highlights key methodological and ethical tensions related to power dynamics, and validation. The findings suggest that, when used reflexively and dialogically, CNC can strengthen the communicative reach, future-forming potential, and participatory quality of action research beyond single-case studies, and we call for further research exploring the role of CNC in diverse communities of practice.