Exploring community engaged research experiences and preferences: a multi-level qualitative investigation

Area of Science:

• Health Research
• Community Engagement
• Health Disparities

Background:

• Community engagement enhances research relevance, translatability, and sustainability.
• Effective engagement is key to reducing health disparities.
• This study explores strategies and areas for improvement in community engaged research.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore community engagement strategies used by research teams.
• To identify areas for enhancing future community engaged research.

Main Methods:

• A forum hosted by the Johns Hopkins Institute for Clinical and Translational Research's Community Engagement Program.
• 50 researchers, staff, and community partners participated in semi-structured group interviews.
• Content analysis of transcribed audiotaped interviews.

Main Results:

• Four main themes emerged: ongoing process, defined partner roles, mutual trust/transparency, and evolving outcome measurement.
• Subthemes included engagement stages, mission-driven approaches, breadth/depth of engagement, partner roles, recruitment, trust-building, communication, and conflict.
• Key findings emphasize the iterative nature of engagement and the importance of clear communication and trust.

Conclusions:

• Community engaged research presents both benefits and challenges.
• Enhanced capacity building, including training and communication tools, is needed for researchers and community partners.
• Future efforts should focus on strengthening these elements to optimize community engaged research.