Value and Usefulness of a Collaborative Information Sharing Forum: Findings from the “Common Ground” Conference Evaluation Activities

Abstract

To determine the value, usefulness, and impact of the “Common Ground, Common Language, Common Goals (CCC): Bringing Substance Abuse Practice and Research Together” conference, which was held April 2001 in Los Angeles, participants were surveyed regarding the effectiveness of the conference overall, the impact of the conference on attendees' collaborative behaviors, and the quality of the roundtable discussion sessions and other activities. Attendees of the two-day conference included substance abuse treatment providers, researchers, policy makers, and community representatives/activists. Based on evaluation findings, participants felt the event provided an appropriate venue for taking the first steps in establishing multidirectional lines of communication and candid knowledge exchange between these diverse stakeholders.

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