Final answer:
PARQ, or Participatory Action Research, is an approach used to ensure ethical research that involves community engagement in all aspects of the study process. It was applied in research at Clark Atlanta University to gather health data and develop health equity programs.
Step-by-step explanation:
The concept of PARQ refers to Participatory Action Research, which is a methodological approach in research studies, particularly in public health, to ensure that the study is ethical and that it effectively addresses community-specific issues. PARQ involves collaborative, bottom-up organizing and participatory methods that actively involve community members in all phases of the research process, from development to implementation.
In the context provided, PARQ was vital in the development of a study at Clark Atlanta University (CAU) which aimed to gather data on the health of African American college students, as such information was previously limited. The goal of utilizing PARQ was not only to collect adequate and accurate data but also to develop sustainable, culturally-tailored programs that promote health equity on campus.