This strategy can be used for: Communication
The steps of the research process are depicted visually, with specific goals and milestones for each task. Each task or goal can be written on a piece of paper, poster, or sticky note, then hung in order on a wall or laid in order on a large table or on the ground. For example, the timeline may include the goal to conduct 3 focus groups in the next month. The timeline may include labels such as "current task," or icons such as check marks (for completed tasks).
The team can review the timeline at the beginning of each meeting. The team can chart their progress by checking off completed tasks, removing the completed tasks from the timeline, physically moving labels (e.g., "now"; "current task") to the location of the current task, or moving an arrow or marker along the wall as each task is completed. Providing visual cues and a way to physically interact with a timeline provides a reminder of the research steps, and reduces memory demands.
Modifications for Remote Collaboration
- Depict the research tasks using collaborative software, such as Google Slides, Miro, and Mural.
- Some software programs include timeline formats that teams can edit to add content for their project. Examples include powerpoint, Miro, and Mural.
Access Accommodations and Support
- Use images to depict the tasks and goals on the timeline instead of or in addition to text.
- Use color to show tasks on the timeline that were completed (past), are currently being worked on (present), and that will happen later (future).
Resources
- This shows an example of a Research Timeline: Research Plan Flowchart example
Tools to Explore
- Miro, IBM Mural, and Google Jamboard are online tools where you can make timelines as a team. Team members can move text boxes/”post-its” into timelines.
- Here are directions for making a timeline in IBM Mural
- Here is a timeline template in Miro
- Here are directions for making a timeline in Microsoft PowerPoint
References
Examples of studies using this strategy
Williams, V., Simons, K., & Swindon People First Research Team. (2005). More researching together: The role of nondisabled researchers in working with People First members. British Journal of Learning Disabilities, 33(1), 6–14. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1468-3156.2004.00299.x
Examples of studies using this accommodation
None specified