Inclusive research in higher education: Insights and challenges from the voices of young people with intellectual disabilities and academics
Abstract
The article examines the benefits, challenges, and recommendations of conducting inclusive research in a university context, carried out in collaboration between 17 young people with intellectual disabilities and two academics. Photovoice was used with an inclusive approach to explore life inside and outside the university. Data collection was conducted through two focus groups and a research diary. The findings highlight several benefits, including the development of personal autonomy, the improvement of teamwork skills, and the increased credibility of the results obtained. However, significant challenges were identified, such as data selection and effective time management. Based on these findings, recommendations are proposed to optimise future inclusive studies, including extending data collection timelines and improving the planning and organisation of the research process. The conclusions emphasise the importance of the active participation of people with disabilities in research, promoting their inclusion and recognition in all phases of the study.
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