Reconciling the Cognitive and Affective Dimensions of Community Engagement: A Scholar's Dilemma

Abstract

Institutions of higher education and their scholars struggle to reconcile the cognitive and affective dimensions involved in community engagement. In support of this concept, results are presented of a formative evaluation of a Community Outreach Partnership Center in Ypsilanti, Michigan, funded by HUD. Recommendations are suggested for organizational changes that may reduce the level of dissonance for faculty and institutions of higher education involved in community building and civic engagement endeavors.