Food Networks in Canada: Mixed Methods in Community-Based Participatory Research

Abstract

This research project case describes my investigation of the increasing collaborations among alternative food initiatives in Canada. Using a community-based participatory approach, I explored the efforts to foster and maintain alternative food initiatives networks by exploring the networks' history, structure, and processes of collaboration. I describe the research process and my role as an engaged researcher working in collaboration with the networks. Integrating my academic and community-based experiences as part of different and often overlapping networks was an integral part of this research process. I designed the research to triangulate data using a number of primary methods: a network survey, semi-structured in-depth interviews, background materials, site visits, and popular education workshops. I detail the way partnerships were developed and collaboration was maintained, and how the data were collected and used. This approach to the research produced a unique set of findings that might not have been possible using more traditional or singular methods. I maintain that, when done well, community-based research can increase the quality and validity of the research results as well as contribute to progressive social change efforts.

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