Community-based research: facilitating sustainability learning

Abstract

Interpretations of the processes and outcomes of community-based research were explored through three case studies in South-East Queensland over a two year period. The findings indicate that the ultimate goal of community-based research is to achieve sustainability learning through a combination of experiential learning, social learning and action, with a primary focus on monitoring and improving the condition of local socio-ecological systems. In addition, community-based research can provide an effective framework for public participation in natural resource management and for achieving sustainability outcomes by facilitating an extension from social interaction, to social learning through to sustainability learning.