A Model for Understanding the Processes, Characteristics, and the Community-valued Development Outcomes of Community-University Partnerships

Abstract

The research investigates the processes and characteristics of community-valued undergraduate community service-learning (CSL) initiatives that are housed within long-term community-university partnerships (CUPs). Using a case study design, the study used in-depth, semi-structured interviews, document review, and observation to understand three CSL/CUPs within a small, liberal arts university in Atlantic Canada. In total, 54 interviews were conducted with individuals involved with the partnerships, including the community organization partners, staff/volunteers of the community organizations, community residents, students, faculty, and university administrators. Part of the analysis process involved co-writing the stories of each of the CSL/CUPs with the community organization partner and the faculty member partner from each CSL/CUP. From the three CSL/CUP stories and current literature, a conceptual model was developed. This model depicts the processes (development, co-creation, implementation, and care) and key characteristics (reciprocity, dialogue, and praxis) of long-term CUPs that are committed to a shared domain and community-valued development outcomes.