Research Strategies
At Indigenous Disability Canada, we recognize that research is a powerful tool for creating positive systemic change. Our project, First Nation's Accessibility Standards, takes a holistic approach by using a variety of quantitative and qualitative strategies to examine accessibility in First Nation communities and focusing on the issues that matter most to those who are disproportionately affected by accessibility barriers. Our research prioritizes intersectionality, gender-based analyses, and Indigenous frameworks to better understand lived experiences. Our commitment to evidence-based and community-based research ensures that the data we collect is meaningful and impactful.
Quantitative Research Strategies
Literature Review
Locate and review relevant literature to identify key findings, themes, and gaps in knowledge to support final project output.
Federal Programs and Services Review
Identify federally regulated programs and services relevant to First Nation people living in communities, specifically those related accessibility and disability. Analyze the overall objectives, modes of delivery, accountability, and incorporation of Indigenous knowledge frameworks and gender-based lens to identify areas of improvement.
Community-Based Research
Collaborate with a total of 15 urban, rural, and remote First Nation communities across "Canada" to conduct in-person and virtual engagements with members, priority given to those with disabilities and caretakers of people with disabilities. Use a trauma-informed approach while doing individual interviews, focus groups, and audits of physical environments to better understand the level of accessibility within each community and the lived-experiences of those who encounter barriers in their every day lives.
Qualitative Research Strategies
Statistical Analysis
Locate and review relevant statistics on population demographics, disability and accessibility for First Nation communities.
Upon completion of data collection, code and analyze information to produce statistical reports relevant to project objectives with the goal of filling gaps in knowledge.
Surveys
Develop and distribute various surveys with the intention collecting data from a wide demographic; including First Nation community members and leaders, federal and provincial government officials, and program and service providers.