Frequently asked questions
Who determines the topics of your research?
Research questions originate from both healthcare practice and academia. During an exploratory meeting between AWVB researchers and professionals from healthcare practice, they formulate a research question together. They look at both the gaps that people experience in practice and the scientific value. These come together in the research question. The chair holder also considers the available scientific knowledge that is already present, but may not yet be known to healthcare practice. The AWVB research themes (Self-determination & experiential expertise, Family, Quality care & professional support, E-health and Complex care) guide the research questions that (partner) organizations submit. In studies that are initiated by academia on the basis of grants, there is naturally always collaboration with healthcare practice.
I have a good idea for a study. Can you carry it out for us? Who can I contact?
We’re open to ideas and eager to discuss them. We’re an open network and have a structured partnership with 15 healthcare organizations for people with intellectual disabilities, the LFB advocacy group, and Tranzo/Tilburg University. These organizations are represented on consultative bodies within the AWVB. Feel free to contact us with any questions or ideas for research.
Why does a PhD project take so long? Do you also conduct shorter projects?
A PhD research project typically takes four to five years and consists of several sub-studies. The researcher writes a scientific article in English about each sub-study. Furthermore, the aim is to translate the results of each sub-study into an accessible practical or educational product, such as a fact sheet or teaching module.
The AWVB conducts more than just PhD research. We also conduct short-term research projects, usually lasting two years.
How do you ensure that knowledge from research is put into practice?
The AWVB translates research knowledge into accessible products for healthcare practice and education. These products include digital tools, videos, factsheets, methods, manuals, training courses, and teaching modules. We also share newly developed knowledge during (thematic) meetings and through articles in Dutch-language journals, so that people with intellectual disabilities, their families, and (future) professionals can make use of them.
I'd like to contribute to the practical application of research knowledge. For example, by developing educational programs based on the latest research findings. Where can I find support?
We are open to discussing the practical application of research knowledge. You can always contact us about this.
Where can I request your practical and educational products?
Some of our practical products and education products can be downloaded or requested via our website, mainly available in Dutch. You can always contact us if you can’t find what you’re looking for.
How do you involve people with intellectual disabilities in your research and organization?
The AWVB’s guiding principle is that scientific knowledge, professional knowledge, and experiential knowledge are equal. Our research is therefore co-created with people with intellectual disabilities, their families, and healthcare professionals. For example, we collaborate with co-researchers in our research, and in 2020, an Advisory Board was established, consisting of four experts by experience. With this, the AWVB aims to better utilize and enhance the unique value of experiential expertise. We achieve this by involving people with intellectual disabilities as early as possible in research that (also) concerns them.