What Is Research?
At CARES, we see research as a collaborative journey—a way to explore questions that matter to our communities. Research isn’t just about data; it’s about people, relationships, and shared learning. Together, we ask questions, explore possibilities, and co-create knowledge that reflects our diverse experiences.
Here’s how we approach research at CARES:
Exploring Existing Knowledge: What Do We Already Know?
We start by looking at what’s already out there—articles, studies, and lived experiences. This helps us understand the current landscape and identify gaps or areas needing further exploration.
Tasks might include:
Searching for articles in databases or online platforms.
Reading and summarizing findings.
Discussing insights with the team to inform our direction.
Asking Questions: What Do We Want to Learn?
Our questions often emerge from community conversations, personal experiences, or noticing what’s missing in existing research. These questions guide our inquiry and ensure our work remains relevant and grounded.
Tasks might include:
Engaging in discussions with community members.
Reflecting on personal and collective experiences.
Identifying areas of curiosity or concern.
Formulating Hypotheses: What Do We Think Might Be True?
Based on our questions, we develop hypotheses—educated guesses about what we might find. These hypotheses help us design our research in a focused and meaningful way.
Tasks might include:
Collaboratively developing hypotheses with the team.
Considering various perspectives and experiences.
Ensuring our hypotheses are inclusive and respectful.
Designing the Study: How Will We Explore Our Questions?
We plan how to gather information in ways that are ethical, accessible, and inclusive. This involves deciding on methods, tools, and processes that honor the diversity of our participants.
Tasks might include:
Choosing appropriate research methods.
Developing accessible materials and procedures.
Piloting tools to ensure clarity and inclusivity.
Gathering Data: Engaging with Our Communities
Data collection is a collaborative process. We engage with participants respectfully, ensuring their voices are heard and their contributions valued.
Tasks might include:
Facilitating interviews, surveys, or focus groups.
Ensuring informed consent and confidentiality.
Creating supportive environments for participation.
Analyzing Findings: What Are We Learning?
We examine the data to uncover patterns, insights, and stories. Analysis is done with care, recognizing the richness and complexity of human experiences.
Tasks might include:
Identifying themes and trends.
Reflecting on findings with the team.
Considering implications for practice and policy.
Sharing Knowledge: How Do We Communicate Our Insights?
Dissemination is about sharing our findings in ways that are accessible and meaningful. We aim to reach diverse audiences, from academic peers to community members.
Tasks might include:
Writing reports or articles.
Creating visual summaries or presentations.
Hosting community discussions or workshops.
Reflecting and Growing: What Can We Do Better?
Continuous reflection helps us improve our research practices. We seek feedback to ensure our work remains inclusive, respectful, and impactful.
Questions we might ask:
Were our methods accessible and inclusive?
Did participants feel heard and respected?
How can we enhance our collaborative processes?
At CARES, research is more than a method—it’s a commitment to equity, inclusion, and shared growth. We believe in the power of community-led inquiry to create meaningful change.
