How can you use social science to encourage communities to change collective behaviours? We cover how to identify a behaviour that needs to change, how to target the key audience, how to encourage change, and the best mode of communication to reach the intended community. The provided check list will help you communicate effectively with local communities.
Continue reading “How to Encourage Community Change”
Action research is a methodology where researchers consult with communities in a more inclusive way, by listening to their concerns directly, rather than simply relying on government and agency directives. Action research also involves community members and stakeholders in all steps of the research process, from the types of questions asked and the way in which the issues are investigated.
Continue reading “How Action Research Can Strengthen Community Services”
I volunteered at the Youth Summit by Barang Regional Alliance, on Darkinjung Country, on the Central Coast of New South Wales. It was a wonderful experience. I delivered the project plan for this event whilst on secondment with them late … Continue reading Volunteering
Community learning addresses the socio-economic outcomes of community members through a long-term, life-long education program. This includes strengthening skills and knowledge of community members, by addressing shifting employment needs as the economy changes; strengthening social cohesion; and improving quality of life and general fulfilment of individuals, families and local groups.
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Sociology and psychology studies show that supporting people by complementing their knowledge and talents has better outcomes in comparison to times when we impose our help upon others. This applies with parenting, between couples, and in times of conflict involving strangers.
Continue reading “Social Science of Helping Others”
This is the first in a series of posts exploring how social science supports local governments in the provision of health policies and services. Continue reading “Healthy Communities: Local Government Supporting Public Health”
How does social science help improve life expectancy? By examining health risks amongst vulnerable populations and addressing inequalities that impact wellbeing.
Continue reading “Improving Health and Life Expectancy”Western societies have dramatically changed the way we see ageing. Getting older once meant prestige: a special status and social influence within a community. This has declined in modern times, as societies became increasingly obsessed with youth. As advanced societies face an increasingly older age structure, we have started to look for social policy solutions to improve “positive ageing.”
Continue reading “Ageing Positively: How Technology Can Help”
Australia’s in the midst of the festive season, the spirit of which is about giving and positive change ahead of a new year. So what does our not-for-profit sector look like?
Continue reading “The Benefits of Volunteering for the Business Sector”
Indigenous communities in remote areas face problems of access and relevance when it comes to mental health services. In areas such as Darwin and Alice Springs, where mental health practitioners are so far away that they need to be flown in, mental health delivery is costly.
Continue reading “Culturally Relevant Mental Health Services for Indigenous Youth”
Social Science Insights 