Overview
The quality and relevance of clinical and translational research can be improved by involving stakeholder communities in shaping, conducting, and sharing study results. However, researchers often find it challenging to identify and engage appropriate community partners.
Community Engagement Studios provide researchers with a practical way to strengthen their work by incorporating real-world perspectives from the people and communities they aim to reach. A Studio is a consultation session with a panel of community members brought by Tufts CTSI. They consider key aspects of a study in a two-hour structured discussion led by a trained facilitator. Panelists members are selected based on the investigator’s needs and may include patients, caregivers, community health care providers, advocates, and other stakeholders.
Originally developed at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, the Community Engagement Studio model and has since been adapted by research institutions seeking a practical, replicable approach to community consultation.
How does it work?
Each studio is convened around a specific research question or protocol element identified by the requesting investigator.
Studios can be requested at any stage of the research process, including study conceptualization, proposal development, implementation, participant recruitment, and dissemination of findings. Meetings may be held either virtually or in person.
The process typically involves the following four steps:
Following the session, studio staff provide a written summary of key themes and recommendations.
Who is Eligible?
- Faculty, scientists, and others with a primary appointment at a Tufts CTSI partner institution that enables them to serve as a PI.
- Projects can be in any area of research leading to a potential impact on health.