From the interpenetrating threads of weaving: a concept for feminist studies

Abstract

We learn from the study and research groups in which we are engaged and research. One of the lessons learned during our professional paths has been to integrate feminist studies, participant research and autobiographical research. In this article, we present our understanding about the integration of these three aspects, which produce our “making think” research in Education through the concept of “interpenetration”, which is a manual weaving technique. It reveals threads that come together, but do not get mixed up, forming designs. As such, this technique is used as a metaphor to reflect on our methodological option. Based on these analyses, this concept represents the search for a fruitful “making think” concerning women who are excluded from formal educational processes, but who educate themselves in life, in the daily resistance to gender, class and race subjugation and, equally, in the work environment.