Introduction
In order to fully understand a research project, it is important to understand the context. The nature of the organization you are working with, the community it operates within, and the issue it addresses are all factors that will inform the best approach to your inquiry project. As a group assignment, this will be a first test of your RING Communication Plan. The assessment should address each of these items:
1. The Organization
By reviewing its website, promotional literature, mission statements and other document, (as well as conducting interviews of any staff or volunteers if appropriate). Evaluate the extent of the organization’s ability to make change in terms of the issue being addressed for this project. In what ways have they already been successful? How can that be maximized? What resources/assets are available to the organization that can be used to make change?
2. The Issue
What is the issue being researched? What is the history and background of the issue? What are some of the root causes of the problem? Why is the problem important? What would be the consequences if the issue was never addressed? What needs or problems are created by this issue? Who does it most affect and why?
3. The Community
Describe the community the organization operates within. What is its relevant history, demographics, physical space and other characteristics that inform your project? What strengths does the community have that can be maximized to make change? In what way does the issue affect this particular community uniquely? What additional support might your community require to make change in this issue?
4. The Stakeholders
Who is most affected by the issue? Who has the power to influence change regarding the issue? Who stands to gain from amelioration of the issue? Link to at least two-three other community organizations that address this issue. How do they address the issue/community differently from your partner organization? What is the relevant information important to know about each of these stakeholders (characteristics, resources, strengths, needs, etc.).
5. Executive Briefing
Finally, create a “front page” for this set of wiki pages that synthesizes the findings from each team into an executive briefing that highlights the most relevant findings regarding the issue and the needs and assets in the community.
General Expectations
Each wiki page should be a minimum of 750 words. You should draw from sources (be sure to cite them), link to websites, articles and other sources of information that you gather. List the student authors at the top of each page.
Due: 2/27, 11pm. 25 points.