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Short Abstract

To reach a more diverse group of citizens, different research methods are identified to develop a typology of Citizen Engaged Research along two dimensions: (1) whether the goal of research is to understand or change societal problems; and (2) the phase of community engagement in research projects.

Abstract

Despite methodological developments in the field to strengthen validity and reliability of research outcomes (Bouwman & Grimmelikhuijsen, 2016; Groeneveld et al., 2015), several challenges remain a matter of concern for Public Administration scholars (Bolton & Stolcis, 2003; O'toole Jr, 2004). Most importantly, the quality of research with and among citizens in bureaucratic processes is a topic of concern among Public Administration scholars (Olsen, 2004), as citizens can act differently depending on their individual backgrounds and contexts (Dewey, 1927).

In response, some scholars have pled to increase engagement with society to develop innovative research ideas (Bushouse et al., 2011). Some scholars argue that the lack of citizens’ influence on research goals and unclarity about the purpose of research can effect citizens’ participation and inclusion (Cohen & Uphoff, 1980). In other scientific disciplines, such as public health or anthropology, engaged research is adopted to establish a mutually beneficial relationship to exchange knowledge between communities and researchers (Boyer, 1990, 1996; Holland et al., 2010).

Through a scoping review different research methods are identified to develop a typology of Citizen Engaged Research along two dimensions: (1) whether the goal of research is to understand or change societal problems; and (2) the phase of community engagement in research projects. The goal of this paper is to provide scholars with an overview of existing methods to reach a more diverse group of citizens in research, while also methodologically advancing research.