Community Engagement (CE) Studio FAQs
Q. How much time does a CE Studio take?
A. On average, a researcher can spend less than four hours preparing for and participating in a CE Studio. Here is a breakdown of that time.
15 minutes submitting the initial request online
30–45 minutes planning a session with MICHR’s CE Studio Team
30 minute to an hour preparing a presentation
1.5–2 hours for the actual CE Studio session
Q. How much will this cost?
A. Facilitator cost, supplies, and staff time are covered by MICHR.
Q. Can I pick or recommend specific stakeholders to participate?
A. Our community navigator recruits stakeholders but you’re welcome to inform the MICHR CE Studio Team of any recommendations or contacts you may have.
Q. Do I need IRB approval to apply for a CE Studio?
A. You do not need IRB approval for the CE Studio. The CE Studios inform the development, conduct, or dissemination of research. The studios are not considered research itself. The stakeholders who participate in the CE Studio are not research subjects; rather, they are advisors and/or consultants.
Q. Can I recruit the stakeholders for my study?
A. You may not use the CE Studio to recruit for your study. You may, however, share information regarding the study. A stakeholder can contact you or your research staff for more information outside of the CE Studio.
Q. Can the information from MICHR CE Studios be used for research purposes or publication?
A. It is acceptable to describe the process and the input that you received. However, because the community experts are not research participants, you cannot provide details of who participated or analyze the input using demographics.
Q. What is the difference between a CE Studio and a focus group?
A. CE Studios are not considered research. They provide a relatively quick way to gain patient or community input on the development or implementation of a research project. Focus groups are research because they are conducted with an interview guide with pre-identified questions. Additionally, in a focus group, the facilitator is more focused on the subjective experience of the group as opposed to the individual. CE Studios are utilized to dig deeper into the individual’s knowledge and experience as it might relate to the study. CE Studio stakeholders can come from a variety of backgrounds with one shared experience, like a particular health condition. This allows the facilitator to focus the discussion on what is most helpful to the researcher and his/her project. It also allows issues that may not have been identified prior to the session float to the top. These tend to be the most insightful for the researcher.
Q. Why is there a facilitator? Can I facilitate myself?
A. CE Studios utilize a trained facilitator who has experience working with group processes and understands the principles of community engagement. The use of an independent facilitator allows a researcher to listen to feedback and ask for clarification without having the responsibility of leading the process.
Q. How can I help ensure that my CE Studio is scheduled in a timely manner?
A. Identifying the right experts and finding a date that works for everyone can take time. We recommend submitting your request at least one month prior to your desired studio date. Your prompt responses to correspondence regarding availability, clarification of your research questions or patient population, and any other details will help streamline the scheduling process.