BJL

Community Based Research

Community-based research is research that is conducted as an equal partnership between traditionally trained "experts" and members of a community. Community based research starts with the community and concludes in its ownership of it, producing outcomes that benefit and are usable for it. Having a research wing means that BJL further develops and formularises its expertise, can deliver relevant service delivery and in addition leads partnerships which pay social dividends back to the community.

The Principles of our community based research are:

• Community partners should be involved at the earliest stages of the project, helping to define research objectives and having input into how the project will be organised.
• Community partners should have real influence on project direction--that is, enough leverage to ensure that the original goals, mission, and methods of the project are adhered to.
• Research processes and outcomes should benefit the community. Community members should be hired and trained whenever possible and appropriate, and the research should help build and enhance community assets.
• Community members should be part of the analysis and interpretation of data and should have input into how the results are distributed. This does not imply censorship of data or of publication, but rather the opportunity to make clear the community's views about the interpretation prior to final publication.
• Productive partnerships between researchers and community members should be encouraged to last beyond the life of the project. This will make it more likely that research findings will be incorporated into ongoing community programs and therefore provide the greatest possible benefit to the community from research.
• Community members should be empowered to initiate their own research projects which address needs they identify themselves

BJL community based research often works with universities, city councils and urban developers. From these relationships we have created programs that assist mature age workers, educate communities in diverse areas, develop small business skills within the local community, and enhance community environments and facilities.

Our Research Projects; Sponsored Resources and Research Undertaken PDF contains more detailed information.

If you would like information or advice on development and research within a community, click here to contact us.

BJL is supported by:

• Department of Education, Employment and Workplace Relations
• Lottery West
• Department of Education and Training
• Job Futures

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