Action Research for Community Health & Wellbeing

By Dr. Russell Coates

Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) is an approach that views research as a relational process through which new knowledge is produced collectively, valuing all research participants’ unique strengths, knowledge, and experiences with the purpose to bring about change or action.  The health needs of the community are the primary driving force of the research.  

CBPR principles illustrated in the conceptual framework I present here include:

• Community needs are the driving process
• A trusting relationship between all participants (academicians & community partners) is crucial
• Collaborative efforts
• Shared power; empowered communities
• Deeper insights & relevance
• Room for learning
• Concern and drive to achieve concrete changes 

I hope you enjoy my insights on CBPR!

Dr. Russell Coates is an Associate Professor and the Director of Outreach Programs at the University of the Incarnate Word Rosenberg School of Optometry.