BRIDGING THE GAP BETWEEN POLICY, RESEARCH AND PRACTICE: EXPERIENCES FROM A COMMUNITY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ACTION RESEARCH PROJECT IN NEW ZEALAND

Abstract

Policy makers are increasingly looking to expand the avenues for citizens to participate in shaping policies that affect their lives. Well-informed citizens and communities expect governments to take their views and knowledge into account when developing policy solutions on their behalf. Engaging citizens allows the government to tap into wider sources of information and perspectives, thereby improving the quality of the decisions reached. Community participation, in particular, is gaining significance as communities are becoming increasingly vocal and keen for policy makers to “hear” the voice of their experience. However, the challenge for government is in making this happen on the ground. This paper captures my experiences in undertaking a pilot study using an action research approach to establish an ongoing dialogue between the policy makers and community groups and, in doing so, to provide opportunities for active engagment on key issues.