Making Qualitative Research Inclusive: Methodological Insights in Disability Research

Abstract

Qualitative research necessitates the representation of, and engagement with, people who the research is designed to assist. Disability research not only seeks to explore populations where lived experience of disability is distinct, it is also a field where researchers themselves have lived experience. This paper reflects on the methodological innovations between the researcher, their supervisory team and the co-created opportunities to collect qualitative experiences from participants with disabilities, acknowledging the researcher’s own disability. The purpose of the paper was to provide scope to explore the multiple provisions required to be inclusive of accessibility needs as a way to bring unique consumer perspectives to the research table. The paper demonstrates, through a narrative lens, how the research space is altered for people and researchers when disability is present; requiring ways to ensure inclusive research practices are responded to. Recommendations for future co-creation of research with disability are identified.