Students and faculty working in the Institute for Integrative Research are committed to exploring new methodologies and approaches for social research that reflect the complex realities of eastern Congo. Instead of immediately attempting to prescribe solutions to the local problems, UCBC faculty teach students to, first, listen to all of the stakeholders involved a particular question and, second, logically analyze the information gathered from the community. It is from this posture of listening that students then develop creative and unique solutions. Therefore, a primary goal of the Institute for Integrative Research is to promote mutual exchange between the academy and community that is based on justice, ethics, and respect for all involved.