The following findings are based on both quantitative and qualitative data from this study, collected across the state of California from September to November 1996. The quantitative portion consists of 251 student questionnaires, pre-forum and post-election, from the twelve partner locations. The qualitative data is from in-depth interviews (pre-forum and post-election) with students at three of the locations, a series of interviews with site coordinators at all locations as well as feedback from the Key to Community team of presenters. The quantitative and qualitative data are intermingled in this discussion because there is considerable overlap between them.
Structure of findings:
1.) Evidence of Increased Participation from the Key to Community program
2.) Identification of Barriers to voting and other forms of community involvement
3.) Key Motivators that addressed these barriers:
A.) A sense of connection to the issues and others developed via dialogue in
issues discussions
B.) Essential information for action that does not overwhelm motivation
C.) Self-confidence derived from how the communications were presented as much as from their content
4.) Alignment with Partner Goals and implications for expansion of Key to
Community