Examining the Outcomes of a Community-Academic Partnership

ECU Author/Contributor (non-ECU co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)

Kelly Forbis (Creator)

Institution

East Carolina University (ECU )

Web Site: http://www.ecu.edu/lib/

Abstract: In the fall of 2013 , a community-academic partnership was established between the ECU College of Nursing and Wells Elementary School in Wilson , North Carolina. Community-academic partnerships have been shown to provide opportunities for mutual academic and community service-related initiatives. Although there are many potential benefits to implementing these partnerships , research is limited on reported outcomes. Investigating these outcomes is critical to the development and sustainability of community-academic partnerships. The purpose of this study is to examine the outcomes of a four-year community-academic partnership between the College of Nursing and Wells Elementary School. A single case study research design was used. Data was triangulated from multiple sources of evidence: interviews , physical artifacts , documentation , and participant observation. Purposive sampling was used to recruit individuals for interviews who participated directly or indirectly in the partnership. Ten participants provided consent to participate in audio-taped , semi-structured interviews. Data is being analyzed using content analysis. Preliminary findings suggest an overarching theme of reciprocity with two subthemes , mutual learning and engagement. Preliminary findings from this study suggest reciprocity is a significant factor contributing to the sustainability of a community-academic partnership. Service learning opportunities and leadership development were areas both partners reported mutual benefit. Academic partners should identify innovative approaches to provide service learning and leadership opportunities that provide mutual benefit for community partners. Fostering and building relationships is also essential in the sustainability of a community-academic partnership.

Additional Information

Publication

Thesis

Language: English

Date: 2018

Keywords

Community-Academic Partnership, Service Learning, Leadership, Case Study Research

Subjects

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