Research that Matters Magazine Explores Engaging in Equitable Community Research Partnerships

In the 2020-21 edition of Research That Matters magazine, the University of Washington College of Education explores what it means to engage in equitable community research partnerships.

Stories in the new issue, “Community as the Cornerstone: Rising Together for Justice,” look at how we can build authentic and impactful relationships with community partners, to incorporate co-designed justice-centered strategies to create better futures for youth.

“We know that education is a cornerstone for creating a more equal and plural society,” said UW College of Education Dean Mia Tuan in her introduction to Research That Matters.  “We also know that disrupting oppressive practices and policies for the long run takes researchers, educators and communities who share a dedication to learning and growing together. Our College is committed to working with communities who are leading this struggle for liberation and self-determination.”

Feature stories in the new issue include:

• “Community First” – Unite:Ed is strengthening justice-oriented research partnerships with youth-serving organizations to advance educational opportunities for historically underserved and marginalized communities.

• “Nothing About Us Without Us” – Community organizations, state agencies and UW researchers are working together to improve pride-centered disability education tools for teachers.

• “Amplifying Culture” – Centering Native education and living out a responsibility to the original inhabitants of the region are the focus of the College’s Indigenous Education Initiatives.

• “What We’re Waiting For” – Responding to tough behavioral issues is a challenge for every school.  An innovative tool, designed by the College based on years of research in Seattle-area schools, is putting a powerful suite of behavior supports in educator’s hands.

• “Piecing Together the Puzzle” – Understanding the ways kids with intellectual disability learn to read has largely eluded educators. UW researchers are partnering with families and schools to uncover answers.

• “Representation Matters” – The UW’s efforts to diversify the educator workforce are getting a boost from a $6 million gift that will expand financial and professional supports for aspiring teachers from diverse backgrounds.

Some of the Research That Matters magazine stories also come with video narratives, video stories, or video podcasts. This playlist compiles all the Research That Matters video stories up to date: