Understanding and Facilitating Community Based Research A Project of Sustainable Toronto Prof. Beth Savan, Coordinator Mary McGrath Jacqueline Canton David Sider David Berger May 16, 2002

2 Project Scope and Objectives Research: To examine the various forms or models of Community Based Research (CBR) To document the benefits of CBR To investigate incentives and constraints to CBR Action: To recommend mechanisms to overcome barriers To more effectively engage Canadian scholars and communities in CBR To establish a CBR network on community sustainability

3 What is … Community Based Research? CBR is a form of research that: “is…conducted by, for or with the participation of community members…More often than not, community-based research involves collaboration of community members …and experts” “…aims…to ensure that knowledge contributes to making a concrete and constructive difference in the world” - The Loka Institute

4 Project Work Plan: Highlights Year 1: Literature search Fundraising proposals and other start-up activities Year 2: Delivery and analysis of Canada-wide CBR survey Year 3: Launch Canadian CBR network on community sustainability Dissemination of research results

5 Year One Activities Literature search Annotated bibliography CBR Resource Centre CBR papers for publication Fundraising proposals Database development Presentations Interviews Networking

6 Papers for Publication 1)A Framework for Community Based Research and Case Study of Community Sustainability in Toronto, Canada - By Beth Savan and David Sider 2) Sustainable Toronto: A New Model for Community-University Partnerships - By Beth Savan 3) Paper on Federal funding for CBR - By Mary McGrath 4) Paper on evaluating CBR initiatives

7 Activities on the Horizon 1) ESAC Conference: May 30, 2002 –Panel Presentation on CBR 2) Continue interviews with CBR practitioners 3) Continue writing papers 4) Develop questionnaire design: Summer ) Administer Canada-wide survey: Fall )Analysis of survey: Winter )Dissemination of survey research results

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