This study advances both the theory and practice of a new paradigm of social inquiry and social action that no longer dichotomizes pure research at ivory tower universities from messy political action in real world communities. Emanating from conversations and projects associated with the Boston College Center for Child, Family, and Community Partnerships, the book provides new models of interdisciplinary collaboration across the theory-practice divide. It is designed to be an invaluable resource for foundation and government officials as well as college and university administrators interested in exploring new approaches to teaching and research that take students and faculty into communities and into the various forms of action learning and ethical reflection.