Progress 09/01/17 to 08/31/22
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary efforts of Military REACH are to make research practical and accessible as a means to facilitate the Department of Defense's (DoD) provision of high-quality support to military families. Our team critically evaluates and synthesizes research that speaks to issues of family support, resilience, and readiness. Across all project years, we identified meaningful trends and practical applications of research, and, then, we delivered research summaries and action-oriented implications to our target audiences, which include military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families, including policymakers in the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and military leadership. In more recent years, we developed a Military REACH app to disseminate military family science research and promote military cultural competence; this app was focused on helping professionals (e.g., family therapists, social workers) who work inside and outside the DoD in response to research suggesting that only 14% of providers have sufficient military cultural competence (Tanielian et al., 2014). In addition to regular reports and app maintenance, this project year we examined data from the Military REACH app to identify the efficacy and impact of the app in supporting the work of helping professionals; this information was utilized by the family science research community and policy makers who are invested in the education of helping professionals and the needs of military families in who seek services from providers with military cultural competence. Changes/Problems:This report speaks to the 2021-22 project period which was a no cost extension to the 2017-2021 Military REACH project. During these project years, we encountered a number of challenges, including the transition of the project to Auburn University, COVID19, working under the Auburn University "alternate operations model" in response to the pandemic, and the typical transition of staff members. Overall, we do not think that these changes impacted our work significantly; we were still able to accomplish all project deliverables, but these are noteworthy changes in the operations of the project. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?All project team members are trained in responsible and ethical conduct with regard to their area of specialization, research or technology/web development via CITI trainings. The Military REACH research team is trained in summarizing, synthesizing, and evaluating research. In FY21, we trained an additional 10 individuals in this process, including graduate research assistants, undergraduate research assistants, and 1 full-time staff member. They also receive ongoing training provided by the writing center at Auburn University to promote effective writing. Members of the research team had the opportunity to attend one or more research-focused conferences to expand their skills in family science, military family well-being, human development, and methodology. Additionally, guest speakers, including military family scientists and military service providers, regularly speak to our team to keep us updated on current research, programs, and policies. The REACH computer science graduate assistants who develop and maintain the REACH website and mobile application are trained to improve the front-end design (Angular, TypeScript, HTML5, CSS3, Cascade) and the responsiveness of the overall website (Bootstrap4). They are also trained to use GitHub (i.e., a repository hosting service). They have access to Auburn University IT specialists and librarians for ongoing mentorship as needed. Full-time REACH staff members engage in ongoing leadership and management training primarily through Auburn University's Human Resources; these trainings included, but are not limited to management fundamentals, grant management, budgeting, legally effective hiring practices, inclusive language guide, stress management, and understanding relevant policy, such as the Americans with Disabilities Act and Civil Rights Training. Regarding our target audiences (i.e., policy makers, helping professionals, military leadership, and military families), TRIP reports and research reports are a form of ongoing professional development as they provide insight into the wellbeing of military families and actionable implications for serving military families. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Military REACH library houses almost 5,000 military family research holdings (e.g., TRIP reports, articles, research reports). These products are disseminated in a variety of capacities: social media, newsletters, LinkedIN, and direct emails to the partners and collaborators. Social media posts typically describe specific research studies and point the user to the resources of Military REACH. To date, we have accrued 2,500+ followers on our social media platforms and 500+ subscribers to the newsletter, including top researchers in the field of family science, policy makers, helping professionals, and military family members, nearly doubling our numbers from last year. Military REACH social media sites received over 16,000 engagements across platforms. One community of interest (i.e., REACH stakeholder) that we intentionally targeted for dissemination efforts this project year was helping professionals. Because their time is invested in working with service members and their families, they generally have less time to devote to reviewing and assessing research. Thus, we made efforts to connect them to Military REACH resources that have applications for their work. Specifically, we attended conferences and workshops oriented toward general community helpers (e.g., National Council on Family Relations) and military-specific helping professionals (e.g., Airmen & Family Readiness Basic Course at Maxwell Air Force Base) to present our research reports that are relevant to their work and to discuss the resources available on our website. This group of stakeholders was also the first target group to receive the REACH mobile app. Through our project contact at the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy Office, research reports and TRIP reports are also distributed to pertinent stakeholders internal to the DoD. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?
Nothing Reported
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Military REACH is an ongoing DoD-USDA partnership project housed at Auburn University since September 2017. With a stable and highly qualified team in place, a number of accomplishments were achieved during theproject period regarding the delivery of high-quality research [Deliverable 1] and the ongoing development of a web-based repository (i.e., online library) of military family research [Deliverable 2]. This final report primarily reflects the work completed during this no cost extension (2021-2022) during fiscal year 2021 (FY21) with some overview of the entirety of the project period between 2017-2021.Military REACH was continued under a new cooperative agreement/grant to Auburn University. Other accomplishments achieved during FY21 can be found in a separate annual progress report under USDA/NIFA Award No. 2021-48710-35671. Accomplishments for Deliverable 1 [research reports]: 1. Composed 1 research reports requested by the DoD to inform policy decisions (see "Other Products"). 2. Identified 352 research studies related to military family support and readiness; these are in the online REACH library (see "Accomplishments for Deliverable 2"). Across the entire project period, there are 4,948 research studies that are identified in the Military REACH library. 3. Developed 500 brief synopses of peer-reviewed research studies (Translating Research Into Practice [TRIP] reports) over the entirety of the project period; this no cost extension year was used to organize and promote these resources. TRIP reports are brief (2 pages) and provide a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, a presentation of practical implications derived from the findings, and an evaluation of the study's merits. TRIP reports are designed for our stakeholders to encourage evidence-based practice and research-informed decision making. 4. Distributed Military REACH research and TRIP reports to stakeholders. 4a. Web-based dissemination efforts. We continued distributing REACH resources on our website and social media; we have 16,000+ "followers" on Facebook and Twitter (@MilitaryREACH). Additionally, we distributed 12 electronic monthly newsletters to our partners at MC&FP and 330+ individuals who signed up to receive these updates. 4b. In-person and online dissemination efforts. See Products and Other Products listed previously. 4c. REACH mobile application (app). In FY20, our web developers created a REACH mobile app for the dissemination of TRIP reports. It is free and available on Google Play and in the App Store. The first round of app development focused on user testing and empirically examining the app as a tool for enhancing military knowledge among helping professionals. In FY21, we evaluated the efficacy of the app to promote military family knowledge and military cultural competence via a longitudinal, randomized controlled trial (RCT). As part of the study, we are examining how users' systematic review of military family research summaries - specifically, two TRIP reports per week for 8 weeks delivered via the REACH app - is associated with enhanced research literacy, knowledge of military families, and confidence serving military families. A total of 259 helping professionals enrolled in the research study component of the app. Helping professionals also received 4 continuing education units (CEUs) when they complete the 16 TRIP reports on the app. Accomplishments for Deliverable 2 [online library]: 1. Sustained and continuously improved the infrastructure of the Military REACH library and website. The Military REACH library includes 4,948 holdings (e.g., publications, REACH generated reports). Our team of IT specialists, librarians, and web developers continue to work together to develop and sustain our digital library on 2 terabytes of server space, large enough for potential growth. In FY21, we continued to customize DSpace to meet our digital repository needs and enhance the search capability for our library. Our IT team conducts regular maintenance checks for security breaches and website functionality, and then real time patches are applied to fix compromises to our system. 2. Enhanced the utility and usability of the Military REACH library. We regularly receive feedback from users and implement changes to make the library more accessible and intuitive. Users have the ability to search the library via a simple query or by using the advanced query-processing capabilities. The search feature also connects users with other resources related to their inquiry, such as family focus articles and dictionary terms. Additionally, we continue to utilize responsive technologies to adapt the website layout to the device being used (e.g., smart phone or tablet), and we remain compliant with Section 508 standards for web accessibility to include visual, motor, and auditory impairments. 3. Published and continue to update our dictionary of terms. Terms are categorized into multiple classifications, including terminology related to the military, data analyses, research methodology, family service programming/therapy, and theory. To date, there are 650+ terms in the online dictionary. The dictionary serves to improve shared meaning and understanding in the interpretation of research, including the products we create. Terms are linked within each research summary (TRIP report) to provide readers quick access to the definition of potentially unfamiliar terminology. Accomplishments for Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for youth development professionals]: 1. Monitored and responded "as needed" to the funder. This year we continued to assist MC&FP in their efforts to support youth development professionals with a focus on tools for preventing and de-escalating peer aggression (See Other Products list previously). 2. Proactively created tools for helping professionals. Our website is home to the Military REACH library, but it also houses others web pages and tools, including a resource page that connects stakeholders with other initiatives that promote the well-being of military families (e.g., Military OneSource, SECO, Military Families Learning Network). We also distributed promotional materials to create awareness about the work of Military REACH.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH: Research and Outreach Website. (2017-2022). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH Library. (2017-2022). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/reachlibrary.jsp
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Military REACH Dictionary. (2019-2022). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/DictionaryResult
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Military REACH Mobile Application. (2020-22). Available on Google Play and in the App Store.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2021, December). Military REACH: Linking research and practice [Invited presentation]. Airman & Family Readiness Center Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL. (National)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Quichocho, D., O'Neal, C. W., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2021). Supporting military communities by equipping helping professionals: An app-based efficacy study. [Poster presentation]. American Psychological Association Annual Convention Division 27, The Society for Community Research and Action, Virtual Conference. (National)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Frye-Cox, N., Lucier-Greer, M., Fitzke-Reed, K., Ferraro, A., & Mancini, J (2021). Military stress, self-efficacy, and anxiety: Investigating the role of marital quality [Poster presentation]. American Psychological Association Annual Convention Division 19, The Society of Military Psychology, Virtual Conference. (National)
|
Progress 09/01/20 to 08/31/21
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary efforts of Military REACH are to make research practical and accessible as a means to facilitate the Department of Defense's (DoD) provision of high-quality support to military families. Our team critically evaluates and synthesizes research that speaks to issues of family support, resilience, and readiness. We identify meaningful trends and practical applications of that research, and, then, we deliver research summaries and action-oriented implications to our target audiences, which include military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families, including policymakers in the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and military leadership. This project year, we made a concentrated effort to target helping professionals (e.g., family therapists, social workers) who work inside and outside the DoD in response to research suggesting that only 14% of providers have sufficient military cultural competence (Tanielian et al., 2014). Outreach efforts and the development of our Military REACH app to disseminate military family science research were targeted toward all stakeholders with extra efforts to support helping professionals. Changes/Problems:This year we continued to manage challenges that resulted in response to COVID19. For most of the project year, we operated under the Auburn University "alternate operations model" in response to the pandemic. Our team members primarily worked remotely and communicated via email, phone, and video conferencing. Overall, we do not think that these changes impacted our work significantly; we were still able to make meaningful progress on all deliverables, but these are noteworthy changes in the operations of the project. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?All project team members are trained in responsible and ethical conduct with regard to their area of specialization, research or technology/web development via CITI trainings. The Military REACH research team is trained in summarizing, synthesizing, and evaluating research. In FY20, we trained an additional 6 individuals in this process, including 1graduate research assistant, 4 undergraduate research assistants, and 1 full-time staff member. They also receive ongoing training provided by the writing center at Auburn University to promote effective writing. Members of the research team had the opportunity to attend one or more research-focused conferences to expand their skills in family science, military family well-being, human development, and methodology. Additionally, guest speakers, including military family scientists and military service providers, regularly speak to our team to keep us updated on current research, programs, and policies. The REACH computer science graduateassistants who develop and maintain the REACH website and mobile application are trained to improve the front-end design (Angular, TypeScript, HTML5, CSS3, Cascade) and the responsiveness of the overall website (Bootstrap4). They are also trained to use GitHub (i.e., a repository hosting service). They have access to Auburn University IT specialists and librarians for ongoing mentorship as needed. Full-time REACH staff members engage in ongoing leadership and management training primarily through Auburn University's Human Resources; these trainings include, but are not limited to management fundamentals, grant management, budgeting, stress management, and understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act. Regarding our target audiences (i.e., policy makers, helping professionals, military leadership, and military families), TRIP reports and research reports are a form of ongoing professional development as they provide insight into the wellbeing of military families and actionable implications for serving military families. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Military REACH library houses 3,300+ military family research holdings (e.g., TRIP reports, articles, research reports). In FY20, we expanded our social media presence to include a LinkedIN account in addition to our other established accounts, resulting in an increased number of followers, and we were able to use social media posts to disseminate research findings from 100+ reports; these posts described specific research studies and pointed the reader to the resources of Military REACH. To date, we have accrued 2,100+ followers on our social media platforms and 300+ subscribers to the newsletter, including top researchers in the field of family science, policy makers, helping professionals, and military family members, nearly doubling our numbers from last year. One community of interest (i.e., REACH stakeholder) that we intentionally targeted for dissemination efforts this project year was helping professionals. Because their time is invested in working with service members and their families, they generally have less time to devote to reviewing and assessing research. Thus, we made efforts to connect them to Military REACH resources that have application for their work. Specifically, we attended conferences and workshops oriented toward general community helpers (e.g., National Council on Family Relations) and military-specific helping professionals (e.g., Airmen & Family Readiness Basic Course at Maxwell Air Force Base, Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference) to present our research reports that are relevant to their work and to discuss the resources available on our website. This group of stakeholders was also the first target group to receive the REACH mobile app. Through our project contact at the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy Office, research reports and TRIP reports are also distributed to pertinent stakeholders internal to the DoD. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?For Deliverable 1 [research reports], we will (1) Compose high quality research reports requested by the DoD in a timely manner. (2) Identify new research studies that have implications for military family support and readiness to keep the DoD well-informed of emerging topics of relevance to military families. (3) Develop brief synopses of relevant research studies that include (a) a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, (b) a synthesis of implications for stakeholders, and (c) an evaluation of the study's merits. These synopses are termed Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) reports. (4) Distribute Military REACH reports to stakeholders via web-based, in-person dissemination tools, and the REACH mobile app. For Deliverable 2 [online library], we will (1) Sustain the infrastructure of the Military REACH library (i.e., the back-end) and mobile app. (2) Enhance the utility and usability of the Military REACH library with a focus on user-experience (i.e., the front-end). For Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for professionals], we will (1) Monitor and respond to the needs of the funder as it relates to providing professional development opportunities, tools, and resources to support youth development professionals. (2) Proactively create tools in conversation with DoD stakeholders to identify needs of helping professionals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Military REACH is an ongoing DoD-USDA partnership project housed at Auburn University since 2017. Anumber of accomplishments were achieved in fiscal year 2020 (FY20) regarding the delivery of high-quality research [Deliverable 1] and the ongoing development of a web-based repository (i.e., online library) of military family research [Deliverable 2]. Accomplishments for Deliverable 1 [research]: 1. Composed 9 research reports requested by the DoD to inform policy decisions (see "Other Products"). 2. Identified 769 research studies related to military family support and readiness in 2019; these are in our online library (see "Accomplishments for Deliverable 2"). For the past 3 years, our comprehensive list of military family studies has been used by the Military Family Research Institute (MFRI) at Purdue University to identify the pool of candidates for the annual Excellence in Research on Military and Family Veteran Award.These efforts reflect collaboration within the field and a meaningful contribution to the discipline. 3. Developed 144 brief synopses of peer-reviewed research studies (Translating Research Into Practice [TRIP] reports). TRIP reports are brief (2 pages) and provide a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, a presentation of practical implications derived from the findings,and an evaluation of the study's merits. TRIP reports are designedto encourage evidence-based practice and research-informed decision making. 4. Distributed Military REACH research and TRIP reports to stakeholders. 4a. Web-based dissemination efforts. We continued distributing REACH resources on our website and social media; we have 2,100+ "followers" on Facebook and Twitter (@MilitaryREACH). We distributed 12 electronic monthly newsletters to our partners at MC&FP and 330+ individuals who signed up to receive these updates. 4b. In-person and online dissemination efforts. Our team virtually attended 2 research conferences to speak about our online resources and to present findings from our research reports (The National Council on Family Relations, Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference) and 1 technology focused conference to discuss our web-based resources and strategic university partnerships (The Eighth International Conference on Building and Exploring Web Based Environments, Virtual Conference). We also presented at outreach events to share REACH resources (e.g., local meetings of helping professionals). Twice we presented at the Airmen & Family Readiness Basic Course at Maxwell AFB to recently hired staff from Airman and Family Readiness Centers (A&FRC) across the world. Speaking at these meetings allows us to provide information on Military REACH and suggestions on how helping professionals can utilize research to inform their work. 4c. REACH mobile application (app). In FY20, our web developers created a REACH mobile app for the dissemination of TRIP reports. It is free and available on Google Play and in the App Store. The first round of app development focused on user testing and empirically examining the app as a tool for enhancing military knowledge among helping professionals.In response to research suggesting that only 14% of providers have sufficient military cultural competence (Tanielian et al., 2014), this app was created to fill that gap and promote military cultural competence among providers. The app can be personalized, such that users select the type of military family research they wish to see and when they receive notices.To evaluate the efficacy of the TRIP reports and speak to intermediate and long-term outcomes of our work, we developed a longitudinal, randomized controlled trial (RCT). As part of the study, we are examining how users' systematic review of military family research summaries - specifically, two TRIP reports per week for 8 weeks delivered via the REACH mobile app - is associated with enhanced research literacy, knowledge of military families, and confidence serving military families. We currently have 183 service providers enrolled in the RCT, and emerging qualitative and quantitative evidence suggests that using the app and regularly reading TRIP reports enhances service providers' knowledge and skills. Helping professionals also receive 4 continuing education units (CEUs) when they complete the 16 TRIP reports on the app. Refinement of the app and dissemination to more stakeholders will continue in FY21. Accomplishments for Deliverable 2 [online library]: 1. Sustained and continuously improved the infrastructure of the Military REACH library and website. Currently, the Military REACH library is comprised of 3,300+ holdings (e.g., publications, REACH generated reports). Our team of IT specialists, librarians, and web developerscontinue to work together to develop and sustain our digital library on 2 terabytes of server space, large enough for potential growth. In FY20, we continued to customize DSpace to meet our digital repository needs and enhancethe search capability for our library. Our IT team conducts regular maintenance checks for security breaches and website functionality, and then real time patches are applied to fix compromises to our system. 2. Enhanced the utility and usability of the Military REACH library. We regularly receive feedback from users and implement changes to make the library more accessible and intuitive. Users have the ability to search the library via a simple query or by using the advanced query-processing capabilities. The search feature also connects users with other resources related to their inquiry, such as family focus articles and dictionary terms. Additionally, we continue to utilize responsive technologies to adapt the website layout to the device being used (e.g., smart phone or tablet), and we remain compliant with Section 508 standards for web accessibility. 3. Published and continue to update our dictionary of terms. Terms are categorized into multiple classifications, including terminology related to the military, data analyses, research methodology, family service programming/therapy, and theory. To date, there are 550+ terms in the online dictionary. The dictionary serves to improve shared meaning and understanding in the interpretation of research, including the products we create. Terms are linked within each research summary (TRIP report) to provide readers quick access to the definition of potentially unfamiliar terminology. Accomplishments for Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for youth development professionals]: 1. Monitored and responded "as needed." We assisted MC&FP in their efforts to recruit and retain child and youth development specialists at military installations throughout theUnited States. We created 3 reports that: (1) identified colleges/universities within a 25 mile radius of a military installation with a degree program related to early childhood education; (2) identified land grant colleges and universities with child development programs, and (3) identified colleges and universities that had programs reported to parks, recreation, leisure studies, and related disciplines. We provided information such at the type of program offered (e.g., associates, bachelors, certification), the contact information for the program director, and a link to the website. The information was sortable by college/university, state, installation, and branch of service. Over 5,000 data points were identified and categorized. 2. Proactively created tools for helping professionals. Our website is home to the Military REACH library, but it also houses others web pages and tools, including a resource page that connects our stakeholders with other initiatives that promote the well-being of military families (e.g., Military OneSource, SECO, Military Families Learning Network). We also distributed promotional materials to create awareness about the work of Military REACH.
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2021, April). Equipping service providers with access to military family research: A systematic approach to connecting scientists and practitioners [Paper presentation]. Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference, Virtual Conference. (National)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Waldron, K., Sherman, H., & Lucier-Greer, M., (2021, April). ROTC cadets help seeking attitudes: Examining the role of leadership style [Paper presentation]. Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference, Virtual Conference.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Frye-Cox, N., ONeal, C. W., Richardson, E. W., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2021, April). The consequences of military-related stressors and supports for marital satisfaction [Paper presentation]. Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference, Virtual Conference.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Sherman, H., Frye-Cox, N., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2021, April). Combat deployment experiences and solider mental health: Examining the factor structure of the Deployment Risk and Resilience Inventory (DRRI) [Poster presentation]. Partnerships in Veteran & Military Health Inaugural Conference, Virtual Conference.
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH: Research and Outreach Website. (2017-2021). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH Library. (2017-2021). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/reachlibrary.jsp
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Military REACH Dictionary. (2019-2021). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/DictionaryResult
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Military REACH Mobile Application. (2020-21). Available on Google Play and in the App Store.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Quichocho, D., & Farnsworth, M. (2020, September). Military REACH: Integrating research into clinical work with military families. Presentation given at the monthly continuing education meeting of the Middle Georgia Chapter of American Association for Marriage & Family Therapy.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Jamshidi, F., Jariwala, A., Bhattarai, B., Abbate, K., Marghitu, D., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2020, October). Building a web-based environment to support sponsored research and university-wide collaborations [Paper presentation]. The Eighth International Conference on Building and Exploring Web Based Environments, Virtual Conference. (International)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Sherman, H., Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2020, November). Service member and civilian parents reporting on child's deployment experiences and their perceptions of the re-establishment of relationships after deployment [Poster presentation]. National Council on Family Relations Annual Meeting, Virtual Conference. (National)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Quichocho, D., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2020, November). Fathers, mothers, and siblings as confidants: A study of military family internal supports [Poster presentation]. National Council on Family Relations Annual Meeting, Virtual Conference. (National)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2020, December). Military REACH: Linking research and practice [Invited presentation]. Airman & Family Readiness Center Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL. (National)
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2021
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & Abbate, K. (2021, March). Military REACH: Linking research and practice [Invited presentation]. Airman & Family Readiness Center Basic Course, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL. (National)
|
Progress 09/01/19 to 08/31/20
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary efforts of Military REACH are to make research practical and accessible as a means to facilitate the Department of Defense's (DoD) provision of high-quality support to military families. Our team critically evaluates and synthesizes research that speaks to issues of family support, resilience, and readiness. We identify meaningful trends and practical applications of that research, and, then, we deliver research summaries and action-oriented implications to our target audiences, which include military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families, including policy makers in the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy and military leadership. Changes/Problems:This year we encountered two noteworthychanges/problems. First, our primary points of contact (POCs) at both the DoD and USDA/NIFA changed. Accordingly, time had to be dedicated to updating the new POCs on our project goals and deliverables and establishing shared understanding of project processes and deliverables. Second, we had to move to an alternate operations model in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. All of our team members began working remotely and communicating via email, phone, and video conferencing. Overall, we do not think that these changes impacted our work significantly; we were still able to make meaningful progress on all deliverables, but these are noteworthy changes in the operations of the project. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?All project team members are trained in responsible and ethical conduct with regard to their area of specialization, research or technology/web development. The Military REACH research team is trained in summarizing, synthesizing, and evaluating research. In FY19, we trained an additional four individuals in this process, including undergraduate research assistants and full-time staff. They also receive ongoing training provided by the writing center at Auburn University to promote effective writing. Members of the research team also had the opportunity to attend one or more research-focused conferences to expand their skills in family science, military family well-being, human development, and methodology. The REACH computer science graduate research assistants who develop and maintain the REACH website are trained to improve the front-end design (Angular, TypeScript, HTML5, CSS3, Cascade) and the responsiveness of the overall website (Bootstrap4). They are also trained to use GitHub (i.e., a repository hosting service) They have access to Auburn University IT specialists and librarians for ongoing mentorship as needed. Full-time REACH staff members engage in ongoing leadership and management training primarily through Auburn University's Human Resources; these trainings include, but are not limited to management fundamentals, grant management, budgeting, stress management, and understanding the Americans with Disabilities Act. Regarding our target audiences, TRIP reports and research reports are a form of ongoing professional development for our stakeholders, including policy makers, helping professionals, military leadership, and military families, as they provide insight into the wellbeing of military families and the communities and contexts in which they reside. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?The Military REACH library houses 2,800+ military family research holdings (e.g., TRIP reports, articles, research reports). In FY19, we expanded our social media presence, resulting in an increased number of followers, and we were able to use social media posts to disseminate research findings from 100+ reports; these posts described specific research studies and pointed the reader to the resources of Military REACH. We also modified the Military REACH monthly newsletter, a resource that provides quick access to our recently completed reports and a feature story written by a member of the research team or guest author, to include a website featured function, recent featured news, and recent family focus stories. To date, we have accrued 980+ followers on our social media platforms and 230 subscribers to the newsletter, including top researchers in the field of family science, policy makers, helping professionals, and military family members, nearly doubling our numbers from last year. One community of interest (i.e., REACH stakeholder) that we intentionally targeted for dissemination efforts this project year was helping professionals. Because their time is invested in working with service members and their families, they generally have less time to devote to reviewing and assessing research. Thus, we made efforts to connect them to Military REACH resources that have application for their work. Specifically, we attended conferences and workshops oriented toward general community helpers (e.g., National Council on Family Relations, National Association for the Education of Young Children) and military-specific helping professionals (e.g., Airmen & Family Readiness Basic Course at Maxwell Air Force Base) to present our research reports that are relevant to their work (e.g., posttraumatic growth, inclusion and accessibility in child and youth programs) and to discuss the resources available on our website. Through our project contact at the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy Office, research reports and TRIP reports are also distributed to pertinent stakeholders internal to the DoD. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?For Deliverable 1 [research reports], we will (1) Compose high quality research reports requested by the DoD in a timely manner. (2) Identify new research studies that have implications for military family support and readiness to keep the DoD well-informed of emerging topics of relevance to military families. (3) Develop brief synopses of relevant research studies that include (a) a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, (b) a synthesis of implications for stakeholders, and (c) an evaluation of the study's merits. These synopses are termed Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) reports. (4) Continually review and improve our research process, particularly with regard to the evaluation of individual research studies to maintain a comprehensive, informative, and transparent process. (5) Distribute Military REACH reports to stakeholders via web-based and in-person dissemination tools. For Deliverable 2 [online library], we will (1) Sustain the infrastructure of the Military REACH library (i.e., the back-end). (2) Enhance the utility and usability of the Military REACH library with a focus on user-experience (i.e., the front-end). For Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for professionals], we will (1) Monitor and respond to the needs of the funder as it relates to providing professional development opportunities, tools, and resources to support youth development professionals. (2) Proactively create tools in conversation with DoD stakeholders to identify needs of helping professionals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Accomplishments for Deliverable 1 [research reports]: 1. Composed 5 comprehensive research reports and 6 brief reports requested by the DoD to inform policy decisions (see "Other Products"). 2. Identified 284 research studies related to military family support and readiness in 2019; these studies are in our online library (see "Accomplishments for Deliverable 2"). For the past two years, our comprehensive list of military family studies has been used by the Military Family Research Institute (MFRI) at Purdue University to identify the pool of candidates for the annual Excellence in Research on Military and Family Veteran Award. 3. Developed 141 brief synopses of peer-reviewed research studies (Translating Research Into Practice [TRIP] reports). TRIP reports are brief (2 pages) and provide a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, a synthesis of the study focused on practical implications, and an evaluation of the study's merits. Our team evaluates each study using a tool we developed from Martensson et al. (2016); the merit of a given study is assessed across three dimensions (i.e., credible, contributory, and communicative). TRIP reports are designed for our stakeholders to encourage evidence-based practice and research-informed decision making. 4. Improved our research process and products. This year, we reached out to academic scholars to evaluate and provide feedback on our TRIP reports as a means of continuous improvement and quality assurance. We contacted the authors of 6 newly published military family studies (total of 21 scholars) and asked for feedback on the TRIP reports created from their research; at least one author from each publication responded to the survey. All authors "agreed" or "strongly agreed" that our summary of their research was accurate and well-written. The authors also provided ideas on developing our implications and pointed us to other resources in the field. We incorporated this feedback to further improve our TRIP report process. 5. Distributed Military REACH research and TRIP reports to stakeholders. 5a. Web-based dissemination efforts. We continued distributing REACH resources on our website and social media; we have 1015+ "followers" on Facebook and Twitter (@MilitaryREACH). Additionally, we distributed 12 electronic monthly newsletters to our partners at MC&FP and 230+ individuals who signed up to receive these updates. 5b. In-person dissemination efforts. Our team traveled to 2 research conferences to speak about our online resources and to present findings from our research reports. We also presented at military-focused meetings. One meeting included the Airmen & Family Readiness Basic Course at Maxwell Air Force Base. At this meeting, we spoke to approximately 60 Readiness Non-Commissioned Officers (NCOs) and recently hired staff members from Airman and Family Readiness Centers (A&FRC) across the world. Speaking at these ongoing meetings allows us to provide new staff members information on Military REACH and suggestions on how A&FRC staff can utilize research to inform their work. Finally, the work of Military REACH was featured by Auburn University at the military appreciation football game. Over 87,000 fans in attendance saw a video featuring the work of Military REACH and learned how to access our resources. Promotions of Military REACH were also featured throughout the week prior to the football game on media outlets and there was a community event and discussion featuring the PI of the project, Dr. Mallory Lucier-Greer, and Mr. Eddy Mentzer, former point of contact in the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy. Accomplishments for Deliverable 2 [online library]: 1. Sustained and continuously improved the infrastructure of the Military REACH library and website (www.MilitaryREACH.org). Currently, the Military REACH library is comprised of 2,834 holdings (e.g., publications, REACH generated reports). Our technical team members (i.e., IT specialists, librarians, and web developers) continue to work together to develop and sustain our digital library on 2 terabytes of server space, large enough for potential growth. In FY19, we continued to customize DSpace to meet our digital repository needs and enhanced the search capability for our library. Enhanced search capabilities include an advanced search with an "exact" phrase feature and the ability to search by keyword, author, and title. Our IT team conducts regular maintenance checks for security breaches and website functionality, and then real time patches are applied to fix compromises to our system. 2. Enhanced the utility and usability of the Military REACH library. We regularly receive feedback from users and implement changes to make the library more accessible and intuitive. Users have the ability to search the library via a simple query or by using the advanced query-processing capabilities. The search feature also connects users with other resources related to their inquiry, such as family focus articles and dictionary terms. Additionally, we continue to utilize responsive technologies to adapt the website layout to the device being used (e.g., smart phone or tablet), and we remain compliant with Section 508 standards for web accessibility to include visual, motor, and auditory impairments. 3. Implemented Cascade, a web content management system for the REACH website. This management system is a user-friendly interface that allows multiple members of the REACH team, not just those with technical expertise, to publish content (e.g., featured stories, news) to the Military REACH website. This system also allows for past versions of the website to be archived and available if needed and provides built-in accessibility checks. This implementation of Cascade allows us to quickly post content to the website and promote accessibility for our stakeholders. 4. Published a dictionary of terms. Terms are categorized into multiple classifications, including terminology related to the military, data analyses, research methodology, family service programming/therapy, and theory. To date, there are 329 terms in the online dictionary. The dictionary serves to improve shared meaning and understanding in the interpretation of research, including the products we create. Terms are linked within each research summary (TRIP report) to provide readers quick access to the definition of potentially unfamiliar terminology. Accomplishments for Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for youth development professionals]: 1. Monitored and responded to needs "as needed" by the funder. This year we assisted MC&FP in their efforts to recruit and retain child and youth development specialists at military installations throughout the continental United States. For each installation, we identified colleges/universities within a 25 mile radius with a degree program related to early childhood education; we provided information for the type of program that was offered (e.g., associates, bachelors, certification), whether it was NAEYC accredited, the contact information for the program director, and a link to the website. The information was sortable by college/university, state, installation, and branch of service. Over 950 data points were identified and categorized. MC&FP used this list to connect installations to colleges/universities in their community as well as to recruit high quality applicants for positions in child and youth development centers on installations. 2. Proactively created tools for helping professionals. Our website is home to the Military REACH library, but it also houses others web pages and tools, including a resource page that connects our stakeholders with other initiatives that promote the well-being of military families (e.g., Military OneSource, SECO, Military Families Learning Network). We also distributed promotional materials to create awareness about the work of Military REACH.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Military REACH: Research and Outreach Website. (2017-2020). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Military REACH Library. (2017-2020). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/reachlibrary.jsp
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Military REACH Dictionary. (2019-2020). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/DictionaryResult
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Burke, B., Quichocho, D., Nichols, L., Sherman, H., O'Neal, C. W., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). Leveraging social relationships to foster posttraumatic growth. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the National Council on Family Relations, Fort Worth, TX.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2019). Equipping practitioners with evidence-based solutions: A systematic approach to connecting scientists and practitioners. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the National Council on Family Relations, Ft. Worth, TX.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Gregg, K., ONeal, C. W., Lucier-Greer, M., & Golembiewski, K., (2019). Understanding inclusion in child care and youth programs. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the National Association for the Education of Young Children, Nashville, TN.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). Translating research into practice. Presented at the Auburn University HDFS Student Brown Bag, Auburn, Alabama.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., Baker, D., & Trehub, A. (2019). The academic library as IT partner: Supporting sponsored research at Auburn University. Presented at the annual Coalition for Networked Information Membership meeting, Washington, D.C.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & Mentzer, C. E. (2019). Mobilizing family science research to support military families. Presented at the Auburn University Family Friday Speaker Series, Auburn, Alabama.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M. & Abbate, K. (2020). Military REACH: Linking research and practice. Presented at the U.S. Air Force Personnel Center, Maxwell Air Force Base, AL.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Nichols, L., Abbate, K., Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2020) Engaging communities with military family research. Scheduled to be presented at the annual 4-H Military Partnerships Conference, Kansas City, Missouri. (Accepted presentation, but conference cancelled due to COVID19).
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
Quichocho, D., Lucier-Greer, M., Nichols, L., Frye, N., O'Neal, C. W., & Krumm, A. (2020). What human services and helping professionals need to know about employee retention and work-life balance. Scheduled to be presented at the annual meeting, Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Birmingham, AL. (Accepted presentation, but conference cancelled due to COVID19).
- Type:
Other
Status:
Other
Year Published:
2020
Citation:
ONeal, C. W. (2020). Linking research and practice: Program evaluation and Military REACH. Webinar for the Military Family Research Institute Learning Meeting, West Lafayette, Indiana.
|
Progress 09/01/18 to 08/31/19
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary efforts of Military REACH are to make research practical and accessible as a means to facilitate the DoD's provision of high-quality support to military families. Our team critically evaluates and synthesizes research that speaks to issues of family support, resilience, and readiness. We identify meaningful trends and practical applications of that research, and then, we deliver research summaries and action-oriented implications to our target audiences, which include military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families (including policy makers with the DoD). Changes/Problems:The REACH team has made meaningful progress on all deliverables, but we do note some delay in our progress with regard to the library database. Specifically in PY2, we proposed to index our library database so that search engines, such as Google, could render the content of our library and take note of key signals (e.g., keywords and phrases). Thus, results from our database would appear when those search engines were used; this would, in turn, increase traffic to the REACH library. This progress is in the planning stages, but was not completed. As mentioned in last year's progress report, our Military REACH team at Auburn University was not able to successfully connect with the previous REACH team at The University of Minnesota to obtain the holdings from their web-based library. Thus, our Auburn University team had to manually download over 1,000 files, tag and organize them in our DSpace library, and format them to fit our library system. This delayed our anticipated progress in other areas, specifically the indexing of the library. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?All project team members are trained in responsible and ethical conduct with regard to their area of specialization, research or technology/web development. The Military REACH research team is trained in summarizing, synthesizing, and evaluating research. In Y2, we trained an additional five individuals in this process, including graduate students, undergraduate interns, and full-time staff. All members on the research team also receive ongoing training provided by the writing center at Auburn University to promote effective writing. Members of the research team also had the opportunity to attend three research-focused conferences to expand their skills in family science, military family well-being, human development, and methodology. The REACH web development team is also trained to improve the front-end design (Angular, TypeScript, HTML5, CSS3) and responsiveness of the overall website (Bootstrap4), and are trained to use GitHub (i.e., a repository hosting service) to store their personal code, while working independently from one another. In Y2, we trained three members of the web development team. This team has access to Auburn University IT specialist and librarians for ongoing mentorship and training as needs arise. Regarding our target audiences, the youth-focused videos are now available online for training youth development professionals on critical challenges for children and youth. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?In PY1, the Military REACH webpage was established, which includes the Military REACH library. Since that time, 2,300+ military family research holdings (e.g., TRIP reports, articles, research reports) have been added. In PY2, we established two social media accounts and disseminated research findings from 66 reports through these social media posts; these posts describe specific research studies and point the reader to the resources of Military REACH. We also initiated the Military REACH monthly newsletter, a resource that provides quick access to our recently completed reports and a feature story written by a member of the research team. To date, we have accrued 300+ followers on our social media platforms and 60 subscribers to the newsletter, including top researchers in the field of family science, policy makers, and helping professionals. One community of interest that we intentionally targeted this project year was helping professionals. Because their time is invested in serving service members and their families, they generally have less time to devote to reviewing and assessing research. Thus, we made efforts to connect them to Military REACH resources that have application for their work. Specifically, we attended conferences and workshops oriented to community educators (e.g., National Council on Family Relations, the Military Family Learning Network webinar) and clinicians (e.g., American Association of Marriage and Family Therapy) to present our research reports that are relevant to their work (e.g., posttraumatic growth, problematic sexual behavior among children) and to discuss the resources available on our website. Through our project contact at the DoD's Office of Military Community and Family Policy Office, research reports and TRIP reports are also distributed to pertinent stakeholders internal to the DoD. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?For Deliverable 1 [research reports], we will (1) Compose high quality research reports requested by the DoD in a timely manner. (2) Identify new research studies that have implications for military family support and readiness to keep the DoD abreast of emerging topics of relevance to military families. (3) Develop brief synopses of relevant research studies that include (a) a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, (b) a synthesis of implications for stakeholders, and (c) an evaluation of the study's merits. These synopses are termed Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) reports. (4) Continually review and improve our research process, particularly with regard to the evaluation of individual research studies to maintain a comprehensive, informative, and transparent process. (5) Distribute Military REACH reports to stakeholders via web-based and in-person dissemination tools. For Deliverable 2 [online library], we will (1) Sustain the infrastructure of the Military REACH library (i.e., the back-end). (2) Enhance the utility and usability of the Military REACH library with a focus on user-experience (i.e., the front-end). For Deliverable 3 [tools and resources for professionals], we will (1) Monitor and respond to the needs of the funder as it relates to providing professional development opportunities, tools, and resources to support youth development professionals. (2) Proactively create tools in conversation with DoD stakeholders to identify needs of helping professionals.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Accomplishments for Deliverable 1 [research reports]: (1) Composed 5 research reports requested by the DoD to inform policy decisions (see "Other Products") (2) Identified 274 research studies related to military family support and readiness in 2018. Utilizing innovative tools in library science, we continue to track new studies in real time to keep policy makers informed of research trends and findings that may impact policy and practice. (3) Developed 90 brief synopses of peer-reviewed research studies. These synopses are referred to as Translating Research Into Practice (TRIP) reports. TRIP reports are brief (2 pages) and provide a summary of the study's key findings and methodology, a synthesis of the study focused on the practical implications, and an evaluation of the study's merits. TRIP reports are specifically designed to encourage evidence-based practice and research-informed decision making among policy makers, military leadership, helping professionals, and military families. (4) Improved our process of evaluating the merits of individual research studies in the TRIP report process.In PY1, we adapted the work of Martensson et al. (2016) to create a tool for comprehensively evaluating individual research studies. We use this tool to describe the merit of a given study across three dimensions of assessment (i.e., credible, contributory, and communicative). In PY2, we used this tool to evaluate 90 research articles, and through that process, we refined the tool based on collaborate meetings of our research team to maximize precision and reliability in evaluation scoring. (5) Distribute Military REACH reports to stakeholders. (5a) Web-based dissemination efforts. This project year, we began utilizing web-based platforms to distribute REACH resources. Specifically, we established a Facebook social media account (@MilitaryREACH) as well as a Twitter account (@MilitaryREACH) to enhance access to research and share recent reports. Across these two platforms, we have 332 "followers" who engage with these posts. We also began electronically distributing a monthly newsletter; in PY2, 10 newsletters were created and emailed to 60 individuals who signed up to receive these updates. These newsletters are also distributed by our funder to staff in the DoD's Military Community and Family Policy office. Finally, we collaborated with the Military Family Learning Network to conduct a webinar about Military REACH. Almost 100 people joined the webinar across 24 different states to learn about Military REACH and our process of creating TRIP reports. Each of these mechanisms expanded the impact of Military REACH by extending our network and putting research into the hands of a larger audience. (5b) In-person dissemination efforts. Our team traveled to three research conferences to speak about the resources available on our website and to present findings from research reports that were created. We also presented at military focused meetings. One such meeting includes the upcoming Airmen and Family Readiness Conference. (Note: This meeting will occur during PY2 in August, but after the due date for this annual report.) At this meeting, we will have the opportunity to speak to approximately 95 flight chiefs, who represent each Airmen and Family Readiness Center (A&FRC) across the world. Every U.S. Air Force Base has an A&FRC that provides information, programs, and services to Airmen and their families to promote personal and family readiness. We will provide information about Military REACH and suggestions on how A&FRC staff can utilize research to inform their work. Thus, we have the opportunity to indirectly reach approximately 318,000 Airmen and 402,000 family members of Airmen by equipping A&FRC staff with relevant and recent resources. Accomplishments for Deliverable 2 [online library]: (1) Sustained and improved the infrastructure of the Military REACH library (i.e., the back-end). Our goal is to maintain a state-of-the-art library platform, and this requires a strong foundation. Currently, the Military REACH library is comprised of 2,334 holdings (e.g., publications, book chapters). In 2018 alone, our team identified 274 published papers related to the well-being of military members and/or their families. Thus, our technical team members, including IT specialists, librarians, and web developers, continue to work together to develop and sustain our digital library on two terabytes of server space, large enough for growth potential. On the backend of this website, we use DSpace, a software for building open source digital repositories. In PY2, we continued to customize DSpace to meet our digital repository needs and enhance search capability for our library. Enhanced search capabilities include the ability to now search for research specific to military characteristics (e.g., visitors can search our library for research on a specific branch of service) and topically (e.g., visitors can search the library for research by a specific focus term or on a specific age group). Our IT team conducts regular maintenance checks for security breaches and website functionality, and then real time patches are applied to fix any compromises to our system. (2) Enhanced the utility and usability of the Military REACH library (i.e., the front-end). This library is publicly available online for use by military families, helping professionals, policy makers, military leadership, and the general public (www.MilitaryREACH.org). Thus, we regularly receive feedback and implement changes to make the library more accessible and intuitive for users. Users can now search the library via a simple query or by using the advanced query-processing capabilities. Each type of search queries from the same repository, but the advanced search allows the user to apply filters and refine their search process. Additionally, we continue to utilize responsive technologies designed to adapt in layout to the device being used (e.g., smart phone or tablet), and we remain compliant with Section 508 standards for web accessibility to include visual, motor, and auditory impairments. Accomplishments for Deliverable 3 [tools and resources forprofessionals]: (1) Monitored and responded to the needs of the funder. This deliverable is addressed "as needed" by the funder. To date, no specific requests have been made regarding the need for professional development opportunities, tools, and resources for youth development professionals. (2) Proactively created tools for helping professionals. Our website is home to the Military REACH library, but it also houses others web pages and tools that were created in PY2, including a resource page that connects our stakeholders with other initiatives that promote the well-being of military families (e.g., Military OneSource, SECO, Military Families Learning Network, Clearinghouse for Military Family Readiness). We also completed a series of four videos focused on critical challenges for children and youth. The theme of the video series was youth development. Each faculty expert collaborated with an instructional designer and videographer to develop a video for families and "sister video" on the same topic for helping professionals. Specific topics included: bullying, peer pressure, finding and making friends, and social problem solving. Finally, we designed and distributed several promotional materials for Military REACH to reflect the projects' "new home" at Auburn University and to create awareness about the work of Military REACH. The promotional materials include Military REACH flyers, pens, clips, stationary, and shirts, and they direct potential users to our freely accessible resources. These products have increased awareness of Military REACH among helping professionals.
Publications
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH: Research and Outreach. (2017-2019). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/#/
- Type:
Websites
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2017
Citation:
Military REACH Library. (2017-2019). Retrieved from https://militaryreach.auburn.edu/#/reach_research_library
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2019). Military REACH: Utilizing family research to inform practice. Delivered via webinar to the Military Family Learning Network. https://militaryfamilieslearningnetwork.org/event/22057/
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M. & ONeal, C. W. (2019). How family science research can inform the work of helping professionals. Presented at the U.S. Air Force Personnel Center, San Antonio, Texas.
- Type:
Other
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., & ONeal, C. W. (2019). Military REACH: Promoting family readiness with research informed practices. Presented at the annual meeting, the Airman and Family Readiness Conference, San Antonio, TX.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., O'Neal, C. W., Abbate, K., Burke, B., Quichocho, D., & Farnsworth, M. (2019). Equipping clinicians with current military family research. Paper to be presented at the annual meeting, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Austin, TX.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Quichocho, D., Lucier-Greer, M., Nichols, L., Peterson, C., Burke, B., & O'Neal, C.W. (2019). Child problematic sexual behavior: Tools to assess and treat. Paper to be presented at the annual meeting, American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy, Austin, TX.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Peterson, C. & Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). Accepting influence in military couples: Implications for couple- and family-level outcomes. Paper presented at the annual meeting, Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Bentonville, AR.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Quichocho, D., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). A multi-informant study of perceived parental conflict and youth adjustment among siblings within military families. Paper presented at the annual meeting, Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Bentonville, AR. (Regional)
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Burke, B., Quichocho, D., Sherman, H., O'Neal, C. W., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). Can there be growth after trauma? An application-focused review of posttraumatic growth. Paper presented annual meeting, Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Bentonville, AR.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2019
Citation:
Nichols, L., Abbate, K., O'Neal, C. W., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2019). Mobilizing family research: Evaluating current research and disseminating practical implications to families, helping professionals, and policy makers. Paper presented at the annual meeting, Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Bentonville, AR.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Published
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Quichocho, D., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2018). Interparental conflict and adolescent siblings anxiety in military families. Paper presented at the annual meeting, National Council on Family Relations, San Diego, CA.
|
Progress 09/01/17 to 08/31/18
Outputs
Target Audience:The primary efforts of Military REACH are to make research practical and accessible as a means to facilitate the DoD's provision of high-quality support to military families. Our team critically evaluates and synthesizes research that speaks to issues of family support, resilience, and readiness. We identify meaningful trends and practical applications of that research, and then, we deliver research summaries and action-oriented implications to our target audiences, which include military families, direct service helping professionals, and those who work on behalf of military families (including policy makers with the DoD). Changes/Problems:The REACH team has made meaningful progress on all deliverables, but we do note some delay in our progress. Rather than a September start, the commencement of our work was paused until our AU team could have a kickoff meeting with DoD and USDA (late November) and funds for the project were subsequently released in the spring (March). Additionally, to date, our team has not been able to successfully connect with the previous REACH team to obtain the holdings from their web-based library. This has delayed our anticipated progress and created a gap in the library, particularly resources published over the last 5 years. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Within our REACH team, all project team members were trained in responsible and ethical conduct of research at the start of the project period. We have trained 8 team members to evaluate research studies and write research summaries (TRIP reports). Ongoing training is provided by the writing center at AU to promote effective writing. Regarding our target audiences, the youth-focused video will be available online for training youth development professionals on support peer relationships. We also attended and presented at 2 national conferences to receive and provide further training and professional development. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?We have established the new Military REACH webpage; this is where research summaries (i.e., TRIP reports) will be publically available to communities of interest. With permission, we will also post DoD-requested research reports on the website. Through our project contact at the Office of Military Family Readiness Policy, Research Reports and Research Briefs have been distributed to pertinent stakeholders internal to the DoD. Research Reports are also distributed directly to the DoD team requesting the topic review. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?In our ongoing communication with the DoD, we learned that Military REACH's work in FY 18 will be focused on Deliverables 1 (the delivery of high quality research) and 2 (an online library of military family research). There is currently not a pressing need for Deliverable 3 (tools and resources for youth development professionals), thus our team will refocus our energy on research and the online library but remain available and able to carry out work for Deliverable 3, if the need arises. For Deliverable 1, we will continue to produce high-quality, useful research that is requested by the DoD (e.g., Research Reports) in a timely manner. We will also continue to proactively survey the research literature to keep the DoD abreast of emerging topics of relevance to military families. For Deliverable 2, we will continue to develop the REACH website and library as well as promote the available web-based resources. Upcoming website developments include the creation of research-based material pertinent to different user groups, specifically policy makers, helping professionals, and families. Our plans are to highlight practical implications for these diverse user groups on the site. User feedback on the website will also be sought and integrated to enhance the utility and usability of the site. Library developments include: accessing the UM library to obtain holdings and integrate them into the current REACH library, utilizing cutting-edge technology to continuously scan the literature for new research across multiple disciplines (including rich site summary (RSS) feeds and crowd sourcing technologies), and adding new entries to the library via batch loads (for holdings obtained from UM) and manual entry (for new holdings). Next steps also include indexing our library database so that search engines, such as Google, will render the content of our library and take note of key signals (e.g., keywords and phrases). When those search engines are used, results from our database will appear, thus increasing traffic to the REACH library. The web developers and instructional designer will continue to advance the capabilities and usability of the library (e.g., advanced search processes, the visual appeal of the results page), and our IT specialists will monitor the servers, with ongoing operating system (OS) patches, general server troubleshooting and security monitoring. Regarding TRIP Reports, our goals are to generate them in a timely manner (~3/week), request and employ feedback regarding the utility of the reports from stakeholders, and disseminate the reports to diverse user groups.
Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals?
Military REACH is an ongoing DoD-USDA partnership project, but this is the first year that the project was housed at Auburn University. With a new team in place, a number of accomplishments were achieved regarding the delivery of high-quality research and the establishment of a web-based repository (i.e., online library) of military family research. For Deliverable 1 (the delivery of high quality research) accomplishments included: creating 4 research reports requested by the DoD (Case Management for the Exceptional Family Member Program, Concussions in Youth Sports, Transitional Compensation for Victims of Domestic Violence, and Problematic Sexual Behavior among Children), identifying and alerting the Office of Military Family Readiness Policy of 3 concerning research studies through Research Briefs, attending national conferences to present research and share about REACH resources (National Council on Family Relations and the Groves Conference on Marriage and Family), and disseminating research about the well-being of military families through media (e.g., Doctor Radio interview). Importantly, we spent time developing a comprehensive and transparent approach to evaluate military family research; our approach is adapted from the work of Martensson et al. (2016). This model provides a systematic approach to determine how credible, contributory, and communicative a given research study is. We used this model to evaluate 19 research articles, and this information is conveyed in Translating Research into Practice (TRIP) reports along with a summary conveying the study's key findings, methodology, and practical implications. For Deliverable 2 (an online library of military family research), we first analyzed the existing REACH military family research library. Our review found that the library was antiquated in design and execution, difficult to navigate, and lacking an efficient structure to be a useful, scalable, and sustainable resource. We developed a new REACH library based on best practices in library science and adult education to create a high-tech repository with growth potential that is inviting and intuitive for users. Our technical team members, including IT specialists, librarians, and web developers, worked together to create a scaleable, digital library on 2 terabytes of server space, large enough for growth potential, using DSpace, a customizable software for building open source digital repositories. This library is publically available online for use by military families, helping professionals, policy makers, and the general public. Currently, the REACH library is comprised of approximately 2,220 holdings (e.g., publications, book chapters), which originated from our own in-house database. During this project year, we identified approximately 200 new resources published in 2018 that will be included in our REACH web-based library. To make the REACH resources, including the library and research products, accessible to the DoD, military helping professionals, military families, and the general public, we established a REACH website with a portable domain name (www.MilitaryREACH.org). Should another institution house the REACH project in the future, the domain name can be transferred to that institution. Currently, the link bounces the user to an AU domain (http://www.MilitaryREACH.auburn.edu/) where the REACH website is housed. In addition to housing the REACH library, the website provides the mission and history of REACH, an overview of our team, and some resources for policy makers, helping professionals, and family members. The REACH website and library have advanced query-processing capabilities to enhance searching functionality; they utilize responsive technologies designed to adapt in layout to the device being used (e.g., smart phone or tablet) and are compliant with Section 508 standards for web accessibility to include visual, motor, and auditory impairments. For Deliverable 3 (tools and resources for youth development professionals), we completed a series of videos focused on critical challenges for children and youth. The theme of the video series was peer relationships. Each youth development expert collaborated with an instructional designer and videographer to develop a video for families and "sister video" on the same topic for helping professionals. Specific topics included: bullying, peer pressure, finding and making friends, and social problem solving. This year we also rebranded Military REACH to reflect the projects' new "home" at AU. This included the creation of a graphic identifier, revised formatting for reports and briefs, and a new website to house the research products created by REACH (www.MilitaryREACH.org).
Publications
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Lucier-Greer, M., ONeal, C.W., Burke, B., Quichocho, D., & Mancini, J.A. (2018, June). Military caregiving supports and the utilization of military-sponsored youth programming. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the Groves Conference on Marriage and Family, Portland, ME.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Quichocho, D., Lucier-Greer, M., ONeal, C.W., Burke, B., & Ching, D. (2018, June). Understanding the experiences of family caregivers of adults with traumatic brain injury: An empirical and theoretical review. Poster presented at the annual meeting of the Groves Conference on Marriage and Family, Portland, ME.
- Type:
Conference Papers and Presentations
Status:
Accepted
Year Published:
2018
Citation:
Burke, B., Quichocho, D., & Lucier-Greer, M. (2018, March). From theory to practice: A theory-informed, critical review of research on military marriages. Paper presented at the annual meeting of the Southeastern Council on Family Relations, Baton Rouge, LA.
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