Abstract:
The purpose of the study was to synthesize a model for empoweringcommunity researchers using the participatory action research which involved four steps of plan, act, observe, and reflect. The data collection included interviews, group discussions, dialogs, and observations. There were 21 community researchers selected to be participants of the study based on the research criteria. The results of the model for empowering community researchers involved 4 main processes; 1) know yourself, 2) identify learning goals, 3) repeat and reflect, 4) find network, not work alone. The results of the empowering model suggested three changes were 1) ability to think powerfully, 2) have the potential to work collaboratively, 3) ability to transfer knowledge. The results of a model for empowering community researchers in this study are based on the participants who have basic knowledge and experiences in research. Thus, the individual or organization who would use the findings need to take into consideration about basic knowledge and experiences of the groups.