Research

The Craighead Institute undertakes research and also trains and facilitates others to do so. We focus on evaluation, qualitative methods and participatory action research.

Evaluation

We recently conducted an internal evaluation of the pilot of the Inspiring Unity course which we developed and delivered with the Ignatian Spirituality Centre Glasgow. Our approach was multi-method and participatory. Course participants completed reflective evaluations after each session and three months after the end of the course. Facilitators also completed reflective debriefs after the sessions. During the course we used participatory approaches which generated further material.

Participatory action research (PAR)

PAR is “a process of collective, self-reflective inquiry” ((Baum, McDougall and Smith, 2006). It is community-based research that involves working collaboratively. It is about participation and working for change.

We are currently working with a group of people in Fife who have experienced unemployment and want to make that experience better for other people by improving the support available. Our role is to train and facilitate them to conduct the research. Sessions have been co-facilitated by Lisa from Craighead and Derek (Doc) Holliday, a peer researcher and volunteer with Glasgow Homelessness Network. The work is funded by Fife Health and Wellbeing Alliance and Fife Employability Training Consortium who are committed to making changes in response to the findings. 

This style of research reflects Craighead’s values and focus on social justice, making positive change and working alongside people.

For more information about the research support we can offer contact lisa@craighead.org.uk