The challenges of navigating different spaces and contexts in collaborative doctoral research in sport coaching

ABSTRACT

In this paper, we analyse our experiences as both researchers and supervisors while collaborating with national governing bodies (NGBs) on jointly funded doctoral sport coaching research projects. We share our collective accounts of undertaking applied coaching research. Composite narratives reveal our ambitions for authentic collaboration; the vulnerabilities of the researcher; and the importance of empathy. Using Bronfenbrenner’s theory, we explore how researcher-practitioner PhDs involve movement between complex social-ecological systems. In doing so, we seek to support neophyte researchers and supervisors engaged in collaborative research partnerships. Contributions may also support NGBs and funders who are seeking high quality and contextually situated coaching research.

KEYWORDS:

• Collaboration
• Doctoral Research
• Bronfenbrenner
• Researcher-Practitioner

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been republished with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.