AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

Chapter 3
Methodology
3.1. Introduction
Although progress has been made, the inclusion of the voices of young people with
disabilities within the research process is still slow and those with complex
communication needs are noticeably absent within the literature base (Morris, 2003;
Rabiee et al. 2005; Mitchell, Franklin, Greco & Bell, 2009; Wickenden, 2009;
Franklin & Sloper, 2009). As demonstrated in the literature review, research into the
use of the internet and online social media by young adults with physical disabilities
and complex communication needs who use AAC is very limited globally. There is a
specific gap within the existing United Kingdom literature regarding self-reported
experiences. The intention of this thesis is to provide an opportunity for their views to
be represented. This chapter will describe: the philosophical positioning of the study,
the methodological underpinnings, ethical approval, preparation through a pilot
investigation, the procedure, and study design in terms of data collection and data
analysis methods.
3.2. Theoretical framework
3.2.1. Disability studies
The political challenges made by people with disabilities to issues of social exclusion
has radically changed the way disability is viewed globally and led to many
legislative changes to recognise the rights and voices of people with disabilities within
society (Oliver, 1990). The British approach grounded within the social model of
disability (also known as the social barriers approach) argues disability is a social
construct that oppresses people through societal forces such as discrimination,
isolation, lack of employment, access and institutionalisation.
Goodley (2011) describes disability studies as
“a new interdisciplinary sphere for scholarly work” (p.3)
which seeks to challenge the view that
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