Esha's Research - the Real Impact of an Inclusive Workplace
In 2023, Esha released a Research Report. Called “Start with yes!” it answered the question – how do people really feel about making adjustments while working with specially abled colleagues?
An overwhelming majority – 93%, said that they would like to be a part of an inclusive workspace.
One of the follow-up recommendations in the report was research on how an inclusive workplace really feels – to everyone.
This year, Esha is conducting that follow up research.
About the Research
The study will be conducted in two distinct parts:
1. Network Dynamics Analysis:
This phase will focus on mapping the network dynamics within the team and the broader organization. We aim to collect data on various personal and professional interactions among all team members. Key areas of investigation include sources of information, assistance, and casual communication within the workplace. This analysis will be conducted without highlighting the focus on persons with visual impairment to ensure unbiased data collection.
2. Targeted Interviews:
The second part of the study will involve conducting in-depth interviews with both persons with visual impairment and their colleagues. These interviews will centre around critical incidents in the workplace, aiming to gather insights into inclusive practices and barriers. By focusing on specific incidents, we intend to minimize social desirability bias and capture candid perspectives.
Objectives:
· To assess the extent of inclusion experienced by persons with visual impairment in the team setting.
· To understand the impact of visual impairment on team dynamics and organizational network.
· To identify challenges and best practices in fostering an inclusive environment for PwD.
Methodology:
· Network dynamics will be studied using sociometric techniques and organizational network analysis.
· Interviews will be semi-structured, focusing on critical incidents to provide deeper insights into the experiences of team members.
Current Stage: Looking for Researchers
At this time, we are looking for researchers who will help us gather the information required for the research. Training will be given to all researchers.
What is expected
Researchers will be trained on creating network maps and conducting critical incident conversations.
They are expected to travel to the workplaces and gather information from both sighted and blind professionals, both in groups and individually.
This information then needs to be recorded as per the project standards and submitted.
When
Data gathering will be done from April to July.
Where
Delhi-NCR, Bengaluru, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh.
How much time is expected?
About eight hours per week.
Who can Volunteer
Students above the age of sixteen can volunteer. All adults can volunteer.
People with interest in, and some knowledge of behavioural sciences, will find this easier. We are open to everyone who displays empathy, wants to learn these techniques, and can devote time. Quality of data and documentation is crucial, so an eye for detail will be very helpful.
What do the researchers get?
In addition to a wonderful experience, all researchers can choose either a certificate of
volunteering or a small honorarium, depending on their preference.
How do we sign up?
Sign up here:
https://forms.gle/A3ofJV8SGCvHu8JA6
Training will start in early April 2024.