Tensions in design and participation processes: An ethnographic approach to the design, building and evaluation of a collective intelligence model

This paper explores the challenges and strategies used to design, build and evaluate a collective intelligence (CI) model to support discussions about cities. Through an autoethnography of ideas and discussion practices in both online and offline contexts, this work explores the tensions between the chosen methodological approaches, including design science research (DSR) and participatory action research (PAR). Moreover, we also examine the challenges and pitfalls observed during the practical conduction of this research when involving participants in the process of empirically evaluating the proposed model. Finally, aspects related to the autoethnographic process itself as a reflective method are discussed alongside the consequences of desiring and seeking participation in the research process.