Assessing the quality of online resources for inclusive research methods: Insights from a 2024 rapid review

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Research Methodology
• Academic Training

Background:

• Academic researchers require accessible training to conduct inclusive research.
• Engaging co-researchers with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) necessitates specific resources and methods.
• A gap exists in readily available, high-quality online training for inclusive research practices.

Purpose of the Study:

• To identify and evaluate online resources available in 2024 for researchers learning inclusive research methods.
• To assess the quality of these resources using established criteria for inclusive research.
• To address the availability and quality of training for engaging co-researchers with IDD.

Main Methods:

• A rapid review of academic literature was performed.
• Eleven online resources were identified and included in the review.
• A custom checklist with 11 items was developed to assess resource quality.

Main Results:

• The review identified a range of online resources for inclusive research training.
• Quality varied significantly across the 11 resources evaluated.
• Certain quality criteria were consistently met, while others were frequently absent in the reviewed materials.

Conclusions:

• There is a significant need for improved online resources and training for inclusive research methods.
• Current resources often lack comprehensive coverage and implementation support.
• Developing high-quality, self-paced training with ongoing support is crucial for researchers in this field.