Kroma and Mears analyzed 24 randomly sampled participatory research case studies from 334
cases found through systematic combing of academic and research indexes. In a survey of the literature
about participatory approaches, they summarized the major advantages of participatory approaches. In
spite of the multiplicity of meanings, goals and interpretations surrounding participation in research,
certain common elements emerge in participatory research literature that underscore its potential as a
valid paradigm for engendering a holistic understanding of our complex human environment that would
then lead to constructive engagement. These common elements include: