Abstract
The authors draw on the concept of social learning to understand Participatory Action Research (PAR) as a process situated in an uncertain and evolving world. They propose that reflexivity and a systemic approach play a crucial role in its transformative potential. They present the results of three actions carried out as part of a PAR bringing together academic and associative researchers: monitoring by a third-party observer, experimenting with a formative evaluation tool that enables a systemic and strategic approach, and a co-constructed survey to understand the conditions for the emergence of several PAR projects. The results suggest that the quality of the collective co-construction process is crucial. This process fosters mutual understanding and values the involved actors. It gives meaning and improves the directionality of the actions undertaken.