Community-Engaged Research Process: My Experience as HIPHI’s AmeriCorps Vista

Our AIM-AHEAD Research Team: Dr. Arcy Imasa, Mikaella Liban, Dr. May Rose Dela Cruz at the Walk for Health event, Neal Blaisdell Park, August 11, 2024

Written by Mikaella Joy Liban

As a recent public health graduate, I was eager to apply my knowledge in a real-world setting. My role as HIPHI’s Community Research Specialist AmeriCorps VISTA allowed me to experience the research process firsthand, develop and hone my skills, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of community-based work. 

As I wrap up my year of service with HIPHI, I reflect on what I have learned and accomplished. My role primarily involved assisting with a project focused on identifying culturally relevant tobacco cessation interventions for Filipinos in Hawaiʻi. Through this work, I gained insight into the complexities of qualitative research – from the process of IRB approval to preparing for interviews, transcribing, and coding. Qualitative research requires time, care, and attention to detail. A significant portion of the work involved transcribing interviews and translating them from Tagalog and Ilokano into English. Ensuring that the English translations accurately conveyed the original meaning of the Filipino responses was crucial to the integrity of the project. 

After transcribing the interviews, I began assigning codes to the qualitative data. I used ATLAS.ti, a qualitative data software that utilizes artificial intelligence (AI), to assist in the coding process. While this method proved efficient, I realized that manually coding the data might better capture the true meaning of participants’ responses. Many of the stories shared had cultural connections, which are important to unpack. Coding is a nuanced process that requires thoughtful consideration to ensure the narratives are accurately interpreted. It draws on knowledge of the topic, the culture, and the context. Having multiple perspectives on the codes is also essential; discussing the data with the team allows us to compare ideas and assign the most appropriate code to the data. The project is ongoing, and the findings will continue to be shared with the community as they develop. 

During my time with HIPHI, I also contributed to several other projects. I briefly assisted with coding the Tagnawa report on Filipino survivors of the Lāhainā fires. Additionally, in October, I had the opportunity to present on the process of qualitative research at Araw ng Saliksik, where I spoke to an audience of high school students and the Pinerds. 

Through the guidance of my mentor and supervisor, Dr. May Rose Dela Cruz, I gained a deeper understanding of both the challenges and rewards of community research. While the work can be heavy, it is also exciting. Collaborating with communities fuels the drive to move forward and build upon their strengths. 

During my time as a VISTA at HIPHI, I have developed a deep appreciation for the art of community-based research. Involving the community in the research process not only validates their stories and experiences, but also helps create tailored recommendations to help uplift them. My growth as a public health professional has been supported by HIPHI, May Rose, and the Pinerds, and I am inspired to continue contributing to the field of invaluable community research.