Benefits of Engaging Doctoral Students in Community-Based Research Projects

This chapter focuses on the self-reported benefits of 112 doctoral students in a college of education who completed a community-based research project. Findings are based on students' answers to the survey question “What did you learn about conducting research or yourself as a researcher through this experience?” The themes of knowledge, self, practice, and skill and related subthemes emerged in their written answers. Doctoral students gained knowledge and skills required of community-engaged scholars, which shaped their self-image as such. The findings of this study support the expansion of and support for community-based research projects in academic programs, departments, colleges, and universities.