Addressing the Gap: Evaluating Shortcomings and Establishing Best Practices in Community Engaged Scholarship

Community engaged research has emerged as a valuable approach for forging meaningful partnerships between scholars and communities -- bridging the gap between theory and practice. However, despite growing efforts to promote equitable power dynamics, many challenges persist, particularly when engaging with marginalized communities. This topical roundtable discussion aims to critically examine the enduring issues surrounding community engaged research, with a specific focus on the gap between theoretical frameworks and practical implementation.

While the intent of community engaged research is to establish mutually beneficial collaborations and integrate academic and practical knowledge, there is a pressing need to address the persistent extractive nature of such work. Despite contemporary emphasis on equitable power dynamics, power imbalances continue to undermine the effectiveness of these partnerships. This panel seeks to delve into the shortcomings of current approaches, exploring the factors contributing to power imbalances and the unintended harm caused to community partners.

The objective of this roundtable discussion is to foster a thought-provoking discourse that sheds light on potential best practices to mitigate these concerns and promote a more balanced approach to community engaged research. By critically analyzing the challenges faced in the field, we aim to illuminate strategies and interventions that can lead to more equitable and mutually beneficial partnerships.

To enrich the conversation, our expert panel includes individuals with extensive experience in community engaged scholarship programs at or with Tulane University. This diverse group of participants comprises professors, program leaders, community members and graduate students who have actively engaged in community-based research initiatives. Their invaluable insights and first-hand experiences will contribute to a comprehensive exploration of the enduring challenges and potential solutions within the realm of community engaged research, and will provide a starting point for the open discussion with participants to share their own diverse experiences and perspectives when it comes to the pitfalls and best practices of equitable community engaged scholarship.

The proposed structure of the roundtable discussion divides the 60-minute time period into three parts. The first part involves a 20-minute introduction and initial thoughts from 3-4 panel members. This will set the stage for the discussion and provide diverse perspectives. The second part allows for a 20-minute open discussion with participants, inviting them to share their viewpoints, practices, and experiences in community engaged research. This interactive exchange will enrich the discourse and promote collective learning. The final part consists of a 20-minute brainstorming session, aimed at compiling an initial list of potential best practices for harm reduction and the promotion of equitable power dynamics in community engaged scholarship projects.

In conclusion, this roundtable discussion offers a unique opportunity to engage in a deep examination of the gap between theory and practice in community engaged research. By critically analyzing the power imbalances and unintended harm often experienced by marginalized communities, we aim to collectively explore best practices and strategies that can facilitate a more balanced and equitable approach. The insights shared by our panel of experts will undoubtedly contribute to a richer understanding of the enduring challenges and offer valuable guidance for researchers and practitioners striving to build meaningful and sustainable community partnerships. We hope that this initial discussion will help to begin the process of more open and honest discussion related to the enduring challenges of power imbalances within community engaged scholarship partnerships across academic fields, institutions, and communities, and help to begin with the assembly of a framework or guide for best practices for more equitable community engaged scholarship.