Use a collaborative, flexible approach

Conducting accessibility user research requires a flexible and collaborative approach. Traditionally, the researcher-participant roles are mutually exclusive to reduce the risk of bias. When researching accessibility, try to find common ground with the participant.

Consider ethical dilemmas of not providing accommodations or adjustments to the participant. You might find that spontaneous adjustments are necessary to assist participants with accessibility needs. Some participants might also need more facilitation adjustment than others. These adjustments won’t impact the accuracy of findings as the goal is to understand how participants' needs can be met, not to watch them struggle.