Testing a Novel Approach to Engagement in Research: Participant-Researcher Collaborative Design

Project Summary

Project SummaryThis randomized controlled trial is comparing two approaches for designing and implementing longitudinal cohort studies. The first approach is traditional in that researchers design the study. The second approach, called co-creation, is new. Study participants help design the study as it is happening.Key AimsAim 1: Test the effectiveness of the novel co-creation approach among a group of study participants.Aim 2: Test the implementation of the co-creation approach by assessing its fidelity and sustainability.Study ParticipantsAim 1: 240 women who live in 24 geographically distinct community research sites in the Southeast United States.Aim 2: A subset of 120 women from Aim 1.Primary OutcomeStudy participant retentionSecondary Outcome(s)Study participant-reported perceptions of community impact and researcher credibilityEngagement ApproachThe research team is working with local residents who are reviewing study plans to ensure that they are relevant and acceptable to their community. Researchers are advising on the feasibility of co-creation. In the co-creation approach, all study participants share decision-making power with the research team on the study methods, data collection, analysis, and dissemination of findings.