Our Definitions
Definitions of Disability
In this project, we have sought to recognise the complex processes in which disability is understood, experienced and identified with. We recognise that disability is a category and/or label of identification that may be felt or experienced differently. As such, whilst we have discussed disability and made reference to disabled young people, we wish to recognise the central importance of self-identification as part of our commitment to co-production and participatory research methodologies.
For those who are less familiar with these understandings and would to learn about the ways in which disability is experienced and/or identified, we recommend reading around the following models:
The medical model - the typical way in which disability is understood as the result of a person's impairment;
The social model - a perspective that recognises the difficulties faced by disabled people due to social and physical barriers that exist in the world;
The relational model - explores the fit between a person and their environment;
Crip theory - another perspective, like the social model - developed by disabled people; this time to celebrate the opportunities and possibilities offered by having an impairment.
Definitions of TAS
A trustworthy autonomous system (TAS) is a system involving software applications, machines, and people, that has the potential to take actions with little or no human supervision.
We've thought about everyday examples such as washing machines, drones and robot vacuum cleaners! This means that sometimes we've referred to technology and robots in our description and understanding of TAS throughout the project to ensure accessibility.
The UKRI TAS Hub also has a definition on their website. You can view this here: https://tas.ac.uk/our-definitions/
Definitions of Co-Production
Co-production is a way of working together and doing social research. It involves traditional power dynamics and hierarchies within research being challenged in pursuit of equitable practices. Co-production centres around key principles of equality, diversity, accessibility and shared gains.
In our project, co-production means that we have challenged the idea of 'end users' in TAS, and sought to centre young people as active co-researchers and collaborators at all stages of the project (not just at the end of a project when a product may be developed).
Much of our co-production builds upon our team members work from Living Life to the Fullest. You can find more information and resources via this website: https://whycantwedream.co.uk/