Recommendations for Collaborating Successfully With Academic Researchers, Findings from the Researcher-Practitioner Partnerships Study (RPPS)

• NCJ Number: 243911
• Author(s): Tami P. Sullivan; Enna Khondkaryan; Bonnie S. Fisher
• Date Published: October 2013
• Length: 8 pages
• Grant Number(s): 2009-IJ-CX-0207
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Technical Assistance; Report (Study/Research); Report (Grant Sponsored)

Annotation

These recommendations for criminal justice practitioners are intended to assist them in having a positive influence in partnerships with academic researchers whose studies are relevant to the practitioners' work.

Abstract

The broad aims of the recommendations are to help practitioners plan for future research collaboration that will function as seamlessly as possible and produce findings that have significant impact on features and outcomes of practices, policies, and services. Seven recommendations are offered. First, identify and build relationships and rapport with academic researchers working in the practitioner's field. Second, interpret and persuade researchers of the value of practitioners' input for their work. Third, identify and work with researchers who are willing to become familiar with issues, concerns, and problems that practitioners regularly confront. Fourth, plan for the resources (time and money) that will be required for practitioners to have a meaningful role in research that involves their participation. Fifth, establish a formal agreement that documents the roles of each party and expected outcomes of the research. Sixth, identify a research point person or develop an internal research committee. Seventh, become informed about the methods required for valid and reliable research. 2 references