Photovoice with Individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities: Lessons Learned from Inclusive Research Efforts

Abstract

Inclusive research is an approach in which individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD) are included as co-researchers throughout the research processes, and has demonstrated benefits for people with IDD. Because inclusive research is still not common within disability research, it is important for research teams to provide reflections and lessons learned to encourage future inclusive approaches. This paper provides case studies of two research projects completed in collaboration with adults with IDD using Photovoice as an approach that can increase access to the research process for co-researchers with IDD. Drawing upon previously defined inclusive research criteria, we reflect on lessons learned and challenges. Inclusive research requires time, flexibility, shared power, clear communication, and cultural humility. Across both studies, we discuss the importance of clear communication with Institutional Review Boards and collaboration with the extended support networks of individuals with IDD. We reflect on how the accessible nature of Photovoice supports inclusive research teams to combine the strengths of co-researchers with IDD and academically trained researchers, such that the knowledge production process is shifted to co-researchers with IDD.