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Identifying and Working With a Research Partner: Frequently Asked Questions

NCJ Number
252781
Date Published
December 2015
Length
6 pages
Annotation
This paper poses and answers frequently asked questions related to criminal justice agencies finding and working with a research partner to collect and analyze data needed for crime analysis and the effectiveness of criminal justice agencies in countering crime.
Abstract
In answering the question on the characteristics of a research partner, it is defined as "someone who has received formal training in research and evaluation methods and has applied those skills in criminal justice settings." In answering a similar question about a "crime analyst," the definition is "someone who may (or may not) have received formal training in quantitative analysis techniques and statistical methods and applies those skills in support of operational organizations, most frequently police departments. "This is followed by the answer to a question regarding whether a research partner or crime analyst will better meet the needs of a task force leading the collaborative effort. Reasons why a research partner is better suited than a crime analyst for the Smart Suite task force effort are outlined. How a research partner can improve a Smart Suite task force are then outlined. What actions should be taken for the task force to prepare to work with a research partner or crime analyst are then listed. Other issues addressed are how to identify a potential research partner, what makes a good research partner, and basic questions to ask in the interview with a potential research partner,