Students will examine the different approaches to community based participatory research methods from government/academic led to community managed. While assessing each method students will develop best practice strategies for social change.
When conducting research, community based participatory research will provide a more accurate picture of the current reality in your community. When studying a community issue, this advantage can lead to a true understanding of its nature, its causes, and its effects in the community, and can provide a solid basis for a strategy to resolve it. As a main goal of community research is to identify and resolve an issue or problem, and to improve the quality of life for the community as a whole, students possessing an understanding of community based participatory research will have an advantage.
The research learned in this class has multiple applications, including the empowerment of the participants, the gathering of the best, most current, and most accurate information available, gathering community support for the effort, and social change that leads to a healthier community for everyone.
This course will be based on a biblical worldview.
Community members are in the best position to know how God is moving in their community. This course will encourage students to celebrate what God is doing in their community.
Through community based participatory research.
This course celebrates cultural diversity and recognizes the gift this is to the Kingdom of God.
This course will give students the practical tools and insights that they need to serve with their community.
Students will leave this class with the skills to put their research into action.
