Knowledge profiling as emergent theory in community-based participatory research.

Area of Science:

• Community-based participatory research
• Research methodology

Background:

• Diverse knowledge sources are crucial for research questions.
• Communities require methods to explore knowledge for research enrichment.
• A knowledge profile (KP) integrates knowledge and expertise to explore research issues.

Purpose of the Study:

• To describe the establishment of a knowledge profile (KP).
• To outline the purposive process of identifying knowledge and assembling research teams and resources.
• To refine research questions and optimize research endeavors.

Main Methods:

• The KP process involves a core team, potentially expanding with expertise.
• Four phases: creating research space, articulating/negotiating, identifying the research question, and resource inventory.
• Illustrated by a case study for practical application.

Main Results:

• An inventory of existing and required resources.
• A robust research team within an ethical and safe research environment.
• A clearly articulated research question, refined through the KP process.

Conclusions:

• KP offers a roadmap for community-based research teams.
• Facilitates navigation through the initial stages of research development.
• Enables effective articulation of research questions and team assembly.