Conducting Peer Research: Learning From the Evaluation of a Parenting Support Intervention

Abstract

Peer research has the potential to increase community engagement in research and improve understanding of the data co-produced. However, there is a dearth of research on how to effectively conduct peer research with parents. The current study aimed to collect the views and experiences of parents who were peer researchers in the evaluation of a parenting support intervention. Four parents participated in semi-structured interviews. Data were analysed via thematic analysis. Results indicated that peer research tasks were perceived as becoming easier with practice. Benefits of peer research included increased awareness of the organisation’s work, enjoyment of the process, exposure to learning new things, and continued networks among peer researchers. Facilitating factors for peer research included availability and accessibility of the organisation’s support, and opportunities for knowledge and information sharing among peer researchers. Main challenges experienced related to the training provided, previous experience in qualitative research, coding difficulties, and procedures regarding the organisation of the peer research process. Parents also shared ways of improving the peer research process in the future regarding structures to support the coordinating researcher and continued involvement of the same pool of peer researchers, given the acquired experience. Studying the peer research process has the potential to increase the understanding of peer researchers’ needs, preferences, and resources, and to inform research aimed at supporting families.

Promoting family wellbeing through parenting support in ECEC services: parents' views on a model implemented in Ireland

“…During the Peer Researchers' work period, there were check team meetings with the coordinating researcher to share queries and insights, and address potential biases that could arise (e.g., how the information on the study was being shared with the participants). The involvement of Peer Researchers and their views on their work were analysed in another study (Leitão et al, 2023).…”