Mixed methods participatory social justice community engagement model

Area of Science:

• Community-based participatory research
• Social justice research
• Health literacy studies

Background:

• A community engagement model was developed using a Mixed Methods Participatory Social Justice (MMPSJ) research project.
• The model evolved through co-creation of synthesis and dissemination with participants.
• Indigenous community members, researchers, and Elders collaborated to explore health literacy and social determinants of health (SDoH).

Purpose of the Study:

• To understand the connections between health and literacy from the perspective of an urban Indigenous community on Treaty Six.
• To identify how literacy functions as a social determinant of health.
• To explore literacy-related issues that contribute to community marginalization.

Main Methods:

• Mixed methods participatory social justice research
• Community-based participatory health research
• Engagement with 12 participants, including Indigenous intergenerational family members and an Indigenous Elder.

Main Results:

• Local, contemporary Indigenous perspectives on health and literacy were shared meaningfully.
• The research illuminated root causes of SDoH and built community capacity.
• The process fostered an enhanced ethical space and richer understanding within community-based research.

Conclusions:

• Appropriate community engagement informs SDoH research in an appreciative manner.
• Capacity-building approaches impact health care practitioners, educators, and policy.
• This work strengthens inter-system relations and promotes health equity.