Introduction

This introduction presents an overview of the key concepts discussed in the subsequent chapters of this book. The book documents an empowerment-oriented research programme that evaluates a large number of community-based family development programmes, located on Canada’s eastern seaboard. It explores the ways in which participatory action research models can inform the development of evaluation projects. The book explores indigenous research and uses as a case example research carried out with Maori. It explores some key dimensions of indigenous research with a particular focus on the ‘insider–outsider’ debate and the roles of researchers within indigenous communities. The book outlines the importance of developing research expertise within indigenous communities so that members of these communities can become leaders in research projects and can create new knowledge in partnership with their communities. It explores the application of participatory action and community development practices as a foundation for research leading to social change.