Cap Lab’s interdisciplinary epistemological approach is rooted in the belief that complex problems must be solved collectively. As firm believers in the democratization of knowledge production, we support equitable partnerships with practitioners outside of the academy. Using this model, practitioners have the opportunity to participate in every aspect of the research, from design and data collection to interpretation of the results and their implications. Likewise, we acknowledge and credit their contributions in the finished work. This model creates a situation where people whose communities are most affected by our work can have a voice in their futures and help keep academic research relevant and useful in real-world contexts.  

Photo: Citizen partner and cooperative housing member discusses police surveillance and harassment in the community with local journalist. Madison, WI