Enhancing Participatory Research with Neurodiverse Individuals: The Potential Role of Assistive Technologies in Facilitating Informed Consent

Cátia Casimiro – Lusófona University, CICANT, Portugal [ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5606-5474]

Abstract
The following chapter aims to address the potential that assistive technologies can have in facilitating the participation of neurodivergent individuals in participatory research. Considering that their participation can help them to have meaningful participation in society, equal opportunities, advocate for their rights, show their point of view, and be valued as important and active members of society, it is crucial to have their presence when research impacts them directly. When recruiting this specific group of people is crucial to respect their self-determination and have accessibility as the front and center of the research. The use of assistive technologies can prove to be a great resource to facilitate interpersonal communication between the researchers, the consultants, and the participants, as well as to obtain informed consent or assent. Although there is some research developed about the barriers faced before, during, and after the whole research timeline, there is not enough when it comes to the role that assistive technologies can have in mitigating these barriers.

Keywords: Participatory Research; Neurodiversity; Assistive Technologies; Informed Consent; Accessibility and Inclusivity

Cite as: Casimiro, C. (2023). Enhancing Participatory Research with Neurodiverse Individuals: The Potential Role of Assistive Technologies in Facilitating Informed Consent. In C. Sousa, & A.H. Tkaczyk (Eds.), Media Literacy and Assistive Technologies for Empowerment in Autism (pp. 147-157). Edições Universitárias Lusófonas. https://www.doi.org/10.24140/asdigital.v1.p02.09