Community-Based Participatory Research as a Tool for Improved Understanding and Practice of Newcomer Integration

KENNESAW, Ga. (Oct 24, 2019) — Dr. Paul N. McDaniel, Assistant Professor in the Department of Geography and Anthropology, and Dr. Darlene Xiomara Rodriguez, Assistant Professor in the Department of Social Work and Human Services, recently published an article in the Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement, entitled, "Community-Based Participatory Research as a Tool for Improved Understanding and Practice of Newcomer Integration."

Abstract: "Community-based participatory research (CBPR) is used as a community-engaged research practice because of its inclusion of community perspectives. The participatory approach enhances validity of community-engaged research, facilitates effective work with communities, and acknowledges accurate understanding of community characteristics. We sought to understand CBPR within the field of immigrant integration. For this study, we conducted three focus groups with immigration researchers and practitioners at two international conferences held in the United States in 2016. These venues were selected for their inclusion of both practitioners and researchers interested in or actively working on immigrant integration policies and practices. They also provided a sample inclusive of researchers from academic, public, nonprofit, and private institutions and practitioners from nonprofit and public sectors. The findings yielded information on challenges, opportunities, and best practices for university–community partnerships to utilize CBPR in improving immigrant integration."

The mission of the Journal of Higher Education Outreach and Engagement is to serve as the premier peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary journal to advance theory and practice related to all forms of outreach and engagement between higher education institutions and communities.