Developing a training course to teach research skills to people with learning disabilities: “It gives us a voice. We CAN be researchers!”.

Background
Within learning disability research, it is important to involve people with learning disabilities at all stages, but there are limited opportunities for them to learn about the research process or to gain research skills.

Method
An eight-session research training course for people with learning disabilities was developed and piloted at a university in London. The focus was on understanding the research process and gaining practical skills in collecting, analysing and presenting research data. Training methods were experimental, with an emphasis on learning by experience in a “fun” way.

Results
Ten people with learning disabilities completed the course, showing great enthusiasm and commitment. During the final sessions, students developed and conducted their own research projects, choosing “Employment” as their research topic. The training methods were well received. Benefits included an increase in confidence and new work opportunities for several of the students. This paper was co-authored by the tutors and most of the course graduates.

Conclusion
It is possible for people with learning disabilities to become skilled researchers, but in order to do so, it is important that they have adequate training opportunities. Funding should be made available for more such courses.