Graduate Certificate in Community Development Research
Published on June 23, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, today I'm thrilled to be speaking with Dr. Jane Smith, an expert in community development research and the lead instructor for the Graduate Certificate in Community Development Research at our esteemed university. Welcome, Dr. Smith! GUEST: Thank you for having me. I'm excited to be here. HOST: To start, could you share a bit about your personal experiences and insights related to community development research? GUEST: Absolutely. I've spent over two decades working in various communities, focusing on empowering residents through research and data-driven decision-making. It's crucial to ensure that community voices are heard and integrated into the research process. HOST: That's a powerful approach. Now, what current industry trends are most relevant to this graduate certificate program? GUEST: We're seeing a growing emphasis on using both qualitative and quantitative methods, understanding social justice and ethical considerations, and effectively disseminating findings to stakeholders. These trends are essential for creating meaningful community change. HOST: Indeed, those skills are invaluable. Now, what challenges do professionals face when learning or teaching this subject? GUEST: One major challenge is balancing the theoretical and practical aspects of community development research. It's important to provide hands-on experience and real-world examples to help students fully grasp the concepts. HOST: That's a great point. Lastly, how do you see the future of community development research evolving? GUEST: I believe we'll continue to see an increased focus on participatory action research, where community members are active partners in the research process. This approach fosters a stronger sense of ownership and ensures that the research addresses the community's most pressing needs. HOST: Dr. Smith, thank you so much for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. If you're interested in advancing your career in community development research, be sure to check out the Graduate Certificate in Community Development Research. Apply now and shape a better future! GUEST: Thank you for having me. It's been a pleasure.
