Amplifying their voices: developing participatory research approaches with deafblind children and young people

Abstract

This paper describes and reflects upon the first author’s journey from teacher to researcher, working with deafblind children and young people, and the research teams’ development of person-centred research methods. Historically deafblind people, particularly children and young people, have rarely been included in participation action research, in part, due to perceived challenges around communication and access. This paper outlines work being undertaken as part of a PhD project that aims to improve academic and social outcomes for deafblind children and young people. It also outlines a novel methodological focus on accommodating the unique communication and access requirements for deafblind young people, to effectively facilitate engagement in participation action research, and ensure research methods are centred on them, using both established and novel research techniques. Progress to date is outlined, describing the reflexive approach used to collaborate with deafblind young people, to inform our practice, and meet the needs of deafblind children and young people. Based on our learning, we provide wider recommendations to make participation action research more accessible for participants with deaf blindness or sensory difficulties.