Meet Dr. Niesz!
In today’s rapidly evolving educational and social landscapes, research is not just about studying communities—it’s about engaging with them meaningfully. The Approaches to Community-Engaged Inquiry course, part of Kent State University’s 100% online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations program, is designed to equip students with the tools and methodologies to conduct collaborative research that is both impactful and ethical.
Whether working with non-profits, schools, families, or other practice settings, students in this course will learn how to partner with communities to address pressing social issues, ensuring that research is done with communities rather than about them.
Meet Your Instructor: Dr. Astrid Sambolin Morales
Dr. Astrid Sambolin Morales, an esteemed faculty member in Kent State University’s Cultural Foundations program, teaches this course. Dr. Sambolin Morales’ research focuses on critical race and feminist methodologies, bilingual education, and equity in schooling. Her expertise in community-based participatory research and youth-led activism makes her an invaluable guide for students exploring the intersection of research, education, and community advocacy.
Dr. Sambolin Morales is committed to helping students develop equitable and ethical approaches to research, ensuring that their work uplifts and empowers communities. Her deep engagement with culturally and linguistically diverse populations gives students a real-world perspective on how research can drive social transformation.
What to Expect in This Course
Approaches to Community-Engaged Inquiry provide students with a practical and theoretical foundation for conducting participatory and community-based research. Through discussions and hands-on assignments, students will:
- Develop research questions that align with community needs and priorities.
- Identify appropriate methods for conducting a collaborative inquiry.
- Explore ethical considerations, trust-building, and relationship development in community-based research.
- Learn the historical foundations of participatory and community-centered research approaches.
By the end of the course, students will produce a comprehensive report outlining a community-based participatory research project based on their area of study or professional practice.
Why Community-Engaged Inquiry Matters
Traditional research methods often position researchers as outsiders looking in. However, community-engaged inquiry prioritizes collaboration, shared knowledge, and reciprocity—ensuring that research benefits the communities involved.
This approach is especially important in:
- Education
- Social justice initiatives
- Policy development
- Community organizing
Students will be encouraged to reflect on their own positionality—acknowledging biases, privileges, and responsibilities in conducting research in real-world settings. This self-awareness is key to fostering equitable partnerships and ensuring that research is a tool for advocacy and transformation.
Who Should Take This Course?
This course is ideal for:
- Educators looking to strengthen their engagement with families and communities.
- Non-profit professionals interested in using research to drive organizational impact.
- Social justice advocates committed to community-centered change.
- Researchers and policymakers seeking ethical and inclusive research methodologies.
Prepare for a Career That Makes a Difference
By enrolling in Approaches to Community-Engaged Inquiry, students will learn to conduct ethical, participatory research that leads to actionable change. Whether you plan to work in education, social services, policy development, or community advocacy, this course will provide a strong foundation for collaborative and impactful work.
Explore how the online Master of Education in Cultural Foundations at Kent State University can help you advance your career while making a difference in the communities you serve.
