This chapter presents a conceptual and empirical synthesis of critical action learning research and contributes to debates on criticality in action learning research. The chapter augments the need for more grounded approaches to the evaluation of research initiatives directed at HRD.

This chapter illuminates the relationship between emotions, politics and disappointment in developing and maintaining research projects. The chapter elucidates the lived reality of developing research projects as an emotional endeavour. Using illustrations from the field, the dynamics that underpin research projects are explored. We conclude with reflections for future researchers.