Practice research collaboration in social work: reflexive knowledge exchange as generative metaphor

This article explores a particular approach to developing practice research collaboration between universities and field agencies. The significance of metaphor in framing knowledge relationships is examined and in particular the contribution of reflexive knowledge exchange as a generative metaphor for collaboration. In positing practice research as a social practice, social, cultural, and political dimensions of knowledge exchange are emphasized. Illustrated through a specific site in Australia, the analysis highlights the importance of reflexive knowledge work within universities as a foundation for productive and innovative engagement with field agencies, suited to conditions of uncertainty and complexity.