Engaging in community-based research supports equitable, just, and sustainable communities within Los Angeles. Community-based research combines three core elements:

Collaborative Inquiry

• Responds to community-defined needs or questions, and builds capacity in community partners.
• Fosters inquiry outside the classroom, including experiential student learning and critical reflections on engaging with community stakeholders.
• Supports shared knowledge creation and exchange of ideas for mutual benefit.

Critical Analysis

• Recognizes power dynamics among communities, institutions, and
• individuals that shape research, reflecting both local realities and broader social impact.
• Transforms university research culture to democratize, demystify, and co-create knowledge in collaboration with Los Angeles communities.

Social Action

• Brings classroom training to real-world issues, enriching students’ understanding of social, civic, and ethical issues.
• Applies evidence-based research to inform practices, programs, and policies addressing major societal challenges.