Presenters: Rhonda M. Johnson (University of Alaska Anchorage)  and Cindy Jardine (University of Alberta)

Learning Objectives:

Upon completion of this interactive workshop, participants will be able to

• Describe general components of CBPR approach
• Discuss principles of  ‘best’ CBPR practice and effective partnership
• Assess current or planned CBPR project for adherence to these best practices of partnership
• Describe at least three types of methods of CBPR, including participatory evaluation, photo-voice and video engagement and documentation
• Provide at least three examples of current or future CBPR projects and/or principles applied in circumpolar context
• Practice at least one of the techniques/skills of CBPR
• Identify at least two ethical challenges within CBPR and propose strategies to address them

Description:

Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) has become a preferred means of doing research involving communities because it: (1) democratizes the research process, removing power inequities; (2) satisfies community demands to have a “voice” in the research done in their communities and to participate as equal partners; (3) negotiates a balance between the development of valid generalizable knowledge and knowledge that is meaningful to the community; and (4) enhances scientific understanding by incorporating the knowledge and expertise of community members.

This interactive workshop will help participants understand the basics of CBPR and how to build productive and fair partnerships between researchers, community members and others.  Examples of completed or ongoing CBPR projects in the circumpolar region will be shared, as well as useful tools and strategies to periodically assess project adherence to ‘best practices’.  Participants will learn about different types of participatory research and have the chance to practice some of the skills typically used in effective and evolving partnerships. Potential challenges within CBPR (and possible solutions) will be shared by workshop leaders and participants, as well as ideas for potential future collaborative research in our region.  Format will include presentation, demonstration, individual and small group work, and active discussion.

NOTE: This workshop can be taken alone or in conjunction with the Visual Research Methods in Community Based Participatory Research workshop.