Community Researchers

The asset pentagon is one tool discussed by researchers as a means of communicating with community residents about services.

 Better research through community-based researchers

Research conducted by the project ‘Desert Services that Work’ benefits from the work of community-based Aboriginal researchers. We have engaged local people to work on the project for three reasons:

The project employs community researchers in five locations; Ali Curung and Lajamanu (NT), Dajarra (Qld), Parnpajinya (WA) and in communities on the Anangu Pitjantjatjara Yankunytjatjara (APY) Lands.

In Western Queensland, community researchers include Mick Marshall, Henry Dempsey, Keith Marshall and Margaret Punch, while in the Northern Territory the team includes Lucy Jackson, Janet Simpson, Rosie Holmes and Savannah Long.

Research methods

Community researchers are engaged in several kinds of research methods. They were trained in these techniques during a workshop in Alice Springs in October 2007 and receive on-the-job support in conducting the research.

Group work during a training workshop proved valuable in developing the knowledge of community researchers.

Research methods include:

• Surveys
• Observation
• Interviews
• Workshops and focus groups
• Visual communication

All researchers work within the DKCRC boundaries of ethical practice and our protocols on Aboriginal intellectual property.

Further information

By the end of 2009, DKCRC intends to produce a summary of the experience we have gained through working with community researchers in the ‘Desert Services that Work’ project. This will incorporate principles and guidelines which include commentary from the community researchers.

Some members of the team have been engaged by other agencies to undertake research. DKCRC supports employment pathways for community researchers involved in its work.