Involving non-academic partners at all relevant stages of the research process can drive knowledge and understanding

Recognising, respecting, and welcoming the differing expertise and experience of different communities is precisely the way that barriers will be overcome.

At a time when some audiences and commentators seem intent not simply to resist academic knowledge but to discredit it, the perception of academic researchers as somewhat under siege is perhaps unsurprising. But rather than aggressively reasserting the value of academic expertise, Claire Packman, Louise Rutt and Grace Williams argue for a re-conceptualising of the meaning of professional community and a more collaborative approach to research. Professional services staff are often ideally placed to bridge any perceived divide between academic and non-academic stakeholders, and to consider ways to dismantle some of the barriers to effective communication.

Read the full article on the LSE Impact Blog.