This is an announcement regarding new resources to support community-engaged research with autistic people and caregivers. These resources were made through a PCORI Engagement Award, in collaboration with autistic people, caregivers (including autistic caregivers), and autism researchers (including autistic researchers). Below is a brief description of the three primary project tools, and they can be found here: https://www.eicollab.northwestern.edu
1. Strategies for Community Engagement with Autistic Adults and Caregivers in Early Childhood Autism Research: This resource describes ways to engage with communities in equitable and inclusive ways. It describes background information about the mindset required for equitable CEnR, and strategies for engagement from planning engagement activities to offboarding.
2. Guiding Principles and Priorities for Early Childhood Autism Therapy Research: This resource describes principles and ideas for future research, from the perspective of our 17 community partners. It also includes supporting evidence for the priorities.
3. Research Fundamentals of Autism Research: This resource describes core research concepts and vocabulary. It can be used by any community member to independently learn about research to either prepare them for a CEnR project, or to read/engage with research articles and materials.
More information about the project and team can also be found on the website. I’m happy to answer any questions at jordanlee2025@u.northwestern.edu.