Outreach, Engagement, Applied Research and Skill Portability: How to make a difference in people's lives
Dr. Bradford B. Wiles's webinar, hosted by NORBARN, delved into the impactful realm of community-based applied research, with a strong emphasis on skill identification, understanding cultural nuances, and the portability of skills across different settings.
The presentation was structured around the principles of Land Grant University (LGU) epistemology, which integrates teaching, research, and extension in a recursive and reciprocal manner to serve and enhance community life. Embarking on a journey through the foundational principles of Land Grant University (LGU) epistemology, Dr. Wiles outlined the mission and methodology of extention and how skills can become portable for researchers that work on a community. 
Foto: Associate Professor and Extension Specialist Bradford B. Wiles, Kansas State University.
First the webinar addressed the theoretical frameworks supporting these practices, specifically the Social Organization Theory of Action and Change (SOTAC), which focuses on the dynamics of social networks, exchanges, and norms within communities. This theory underpins the importance of social capital and community capacity, which are essential for achieving sustainable outcomes in community-based work.
Then, a significant portion of the webinar was dedicated to practical exercises that engaged participants in identifying both their existing skills and areas where they lack. These activities were designed to mirror real-life scenarios that professionals might face in community settings, such as increasing the enrollment of ethnic minorities in Early Childhood Education (ECE). Participants were encouraged to think critically about internal strategies and external collaborations necessary to address such challenges, emphasizing the importance of cultural understanding and community engagement.
Dr. Wiles highlighted the concept of Community-based Participatory Research (CBPR), which stresses the importance of working directly with stakeholders and respecting local contexts—political, social, and cultural. This approach not only fosters community action and change but also ensures that the research is relevant and beneficial to the community members involved.
The discussion on portable leadership skills was particularly relevant, as Dr. Wiles outlined how leaders could effectively uncover pathways for others, position resources to build community capacity, and form relationships with cultural ambassadors. These skills are crucial for navigating the diverse cultural landscapes and for fostering environments where community members feel valued and understood.
In conclusion, Dr. Wiles's presentation underscored the critical role of identifying and developing skills, understanding and relating to different cultures, and effectively applying these competencies in community settings and through energizing different networks. The exercises and discussions throughout the webinar not only provided theoretical insights but also practical tools and strategies for participants to enhance their engagement and impact in diverse community contexts. The overarching message was clear: effective community engagement relies on robust networks, meaningful relationships, and a deep understanding of cultural dynamics.
