Authors: Pearce, Jenny; Pearson, Martin; Cameron, Sam

Source: Participatory Learning and Action, Volume 58, Number 1, June 2008 , pp. 82-86(5)

Publisher: IIED - Participatory Learning and Action

Abstract:

To foster community engagement in their academic institution in the UK, the authors have designed a novel way of measuring and evaluating how Bradford University could effectively work with its communities and assess the ongoing impact of this work. The tool is based on an assumption that community engagement involves building partnerships and shared objectives based on mutually recognised and valued community and university competences. The qualitative measurement tool is based on four principles: Reciprocity, Externality, Access and Partnership (REAP). The authors argue that university-community engagement should encompass both a willingness to make academic knowledge and expertise available to the communities of Bradford and the recognition that academics can themselves benefit in their research and teaching from the knowledge and experience of the communities around them. By looking 'beyond the ivory tower', universities can help to building a learning- and knowledge-based society for the many, not just the few, and so contribute to the development of more cohesive, equitable and democratic local communities.

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Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2008-06-01

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• Participatory Learning and Action (formerly PLA Notes) is the world's leading informal journal on participatory approaches and methods. It is published 2-3 times a year and includes articles of both general and thematic interest. PLA draws on the expertise of guest editors and authors, providing timely accounts and critical analysis about participatory development in specific fields. All articles are peer reviewed by an International Editorial Board. Subscriptions are free to readers from the South. For more information and to subscribe, visit www.planotes.org.

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