It is estimated that as many as 1 in every 100 people may be autistic, yet autistic people are generally under-represented in qualitative research. Additionally, the ‘stereotype’ of an autistic person remains a white, middle class male child or young adult. Therefore, even where qualitative research is specifically focused on autistic people or autism, certain groups, such as non-speaking autistic people, autistic people in adolescence, autistic people of colour and older autistic people with a late diagnosis, face barriers to participating in projects that may make people’s lives better.
In light of the recent shift towards lived experience and participatory/emancipatory methods of research for marginalised groups and people with disabilities, this 5-session interactive training course aims to equip qualitative researchers to consider the needs of autistic people and to design projects which overcome the barriers to participation that some people with disabilities may face.
The 5 seminars will cover the following topics:
- Beyond ‘Ableism’: How to be Good Autistic Allies.
- Hearing the Autistic ‘Voice’: Speaking and Non-Speaking Communication.
- Working with Autistic Adolescents.
- Conducting Participatory Action Research with Autistic People.
- Interviewing Autistic People for Qualitative Research.
These interactive sessions will draw on the experience and expertise of several partner organisations, including the National Autistic Society and Scottish Autism. There will be opportunities to network with other researchers and key stakeholders, to hear their input in relation to your own research aims, and to identify pathways for public engagement. A reflective learning journal will be provided to all participants, along with other accompanying resources.
Session 1: Tuesday 20 April, 3pm-5pm
Session 2: Tuesday 27 April, 3pm-5pm
Session 3: Tuesday 4 May, 3pm-5pm
Session 4: Tuesday 11 May, 3pm-5pm
Session 5: Tuesday 18 May, 3pm-5pm