Gathering primary research
As part of my primary research, I contacted a local psychologist who specialises in providing talking therapies for neurodivergent adults. After discussing my dissertation with her, she suggested that, alongside my online questionnaire, I should create a printed version that could be left in clinical and community settings for people to complete in their own time.
She explained that if I designed a professional-looking questionnaire with a clear introduction explaining who I am and what the research is about, she would be happy to leave copies available at her private clinic for clients who wished to participate. This advice made me realise that not everyone would want to complete an online form, and that offering a printed alternative could make the research more accessible and encourage a wider range of responses.
Taking this feedback on board, I designed a four-page printed questionnaire with an introductory cover page explaining the purpose of the research, reassuring participants that all responses would remain anonymous and confidential, and introducing myself as both a Master's student and a neurodivergent designer. I then adapted the interview questions into a handwritten format with generous space for participants to share their experiences.
Moving forward, I plan to distribute printed copies through the therapist's private clinic and also approach other organisations that support autistic people, including CAMHS and a local community hall that hosts social events for neurodivergent adults. This will allow me to gather a broader range of lived experiences and strengthen the quality of my primary research.
Good research is not only about asking meaningful questions but also about making participation as accessible as possible. Creating both digital and printed versions of the questionnaire should help me reach a wider audience and ensure that a greater variety of autistic voices are represented within my dissertation.
