International Group Work Research: Guidelines in Cultural Contexts

Abstract

This article offers 10 guidelines for conducting international group work research. These guidelines include the importance of establishing relationships, conducting a needs assessment, co-constructing the research questions/design, determining the approach, choosing culturally relevant instruments, choosing culturally responsive group interventions, following required/ethical research procedures, determining data analysis/dissemination plan, engaging in effective communication, and practicing cultural humility throughout the process. Using a group stage conceptualization, a case study focusing on an international group work research effort being conducted in 2 primary schools in Malawi is given to highlight the guidelines.

Keywords:

• best practice guidelines
• group stages
• group work research
• international
• Malawi

ACKNOWLEDGMENTS

The authors would like to thank all that were involved in this initiative including counselors/educators/leaders/learners from Malawi and the United States. Special thanks goes especially to Dr. Jacqueline Chazema, our collaborator in Malawi, who continues to implement and monitor this group research initiative.

FUNDING

This work was supported in part by a Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Faculty Professional Development Council Grant and Indiana University of Pennsylvania Senate Research Committee Grant.

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported in part by a Pennsylvania State System of Higher Education Faculty Professional Development Council Grant and Indiana University of Pennsylvania Senate Research Committee Grant.

Notes on contributors

Lorraine J. Guth

Lorraine J. Guth, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Counseling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Kimberly K. Asner-Self, Ed.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Counseling, Quantitative Methods, and Special Education at Southern Illinois University.

Kimberly K. Asner-Self

Lorraine J. Guth, Ph.D., is a professor in the Department of Counseling at Indiana University of Pennsylvania. Kimberly K. Asner-Self, Ed.D., is an associate professor in the Department of Counseling, Quantitative Methods, and Special Education at Southern Illinois University.