PARTICIPATORY RESEARCH
The Center for Research Strategies employs the principles of participatory research in all the projects we undertake. The ultimate objective of participatory research is to create action for social change, recognizing that the process of learning is as important as whatever research outcomes may emerge. Participatory research is a collaborative approach that equitably involves the people affected by the research, organizational representatives, academic researchers and other stakeholders in all aspects of the process, including the inception, design, implementation, analysis and reporting of the research.
Over the past three years, the Center for Research Strategies has:
- Partnered with community-based mental health organizations, universities and other institutes of higher education, and primary health care entities to develop a graduate level course curriculum on engaging the community in rural mental health research.
- Facilitated statewide participatory action research with school administrators and teachers studying the effects of homelessness and highly mobility. This year-long project resulted in the development of new educational practices for disadvantaged students.
- Compiled extensive participatory action research resources as part of several national publications, including a forthcoming book. Our findings confirm that participatory action research methods result in high levels of engagement among community stakeholders in the underlying social issues.
The education and health research staff at the Center for Research Strategies has been recognized for their work in participatory research. Let us partner with you to develop community-based research projects in your area of interest and expertise. We can work with organizations and community groups to secure funding for participatory research, conduct training, and/or consult with current partnership groups interested in engaging community partners in their work. Contact us for more information.
|
