The Community Based Research Program is based on models of community participatory research that creates opportunities for students to conduct research projects initiated and identified by community-based organizations in southeastern Michigan. These immersive learning experiences enable students to connect course work and research skills in service to community organizations and the communities they serve. Students are paired with non-profits around the Metro-Detroit area to work for 10 weeks on a research project of need for their community organization. This fellowship provides the opportunity for students to gain experience with research and working with a community organization. The power of community-based research is that it allows students to see the direct impact their work can have on an organization and local community. As a result of working with non-profit organizations, students also leave the program with enhanced levels of civic engagement and awareness of community issues. In conjunction with the research placements, students in the CBR program also attend weekly seminars aimed at developing practical skills for working in a community setting and research skills (survey, participatory action, focus group facilitation, interviewing skills, qualitative and quantitative analytic methods). Finally, students engage in active reflection and online community building through weekly blog posts.
