Research Study for the Project ECAID

In Da Nang, the target location of the Action, there is a dearth of reliable data on children with disability, especially children with autism or intellectual disabilities. With the establishment of an Inclusive Education Resource Center, Da Nang City’s authority has made strides in the gradual integration of students with disabilities from special needs institutions normal schools. Unfortunately, such education setting is not commonplace. A majority of schools in Da Nang City do not provide proper support for students with disabilities without trained professionals to mainstream inclusive education. Similar to the national situation, students with disabilities tend not to pursue postsecondary education and many lack the opportunity to pursue vocational training and explore employment prospects. 
In this context, the project “Empower Children with Autism or Intellectual Disabilities” aims to enhance equal rights of children with autism or intellectual disabilities in Viet Nam through empowering rights of children with autism or intellectual disabilities, their caregivers and family members, enabling an inclusive environment for these children through transforming social norms and attitudes, and advocating for effective policy implementation to support equal rights and participation of children with autism or intellectual disabilities in schools and communities. 
 

• Assess Awareness, Knowledge, and Attitudes Toward the Rights of Children with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
• Evaluate the Availability and Accessibility of Public and Social Services
• Understand the Experiences and Perceptions of Children with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities
• Mapping of Existing Dialogue Spaces for Children with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities and their Family Members
• Suggest Child-Friendly and Adaptive Engagement Tools
• Review Existing Law and Policies Related to Children with Autism and Intellectual Disabilities

The consultant(s) will propose an appropriate methodology to gather comprehensive information and data to meet the research objectives. This will involve utilizing a mixed-methods approach, combining both quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, while leveraging primary and secondary data sources. 
The consultant(s) is expected to outline their proposed methodology for the research, which should include, but is not limited to, a description of the overall evaluation design, the data sources to be utilized, methods for data collection and analysis, and the sample size and sampling techniques.
Data collection methods should be participatory, actively engaging contributions from children with autism or intellectual disabilities and their caregivers/parents, as well as the project team, local partners, and other stakeholders. The proposed methodologies must align with and meet World Vision's DMEAL standards

•    A Master’s or Ph.D. in a relevant field such as Public Health, Social Work, Special Education, Psychology, or Disability Studies.
•    Additional certifications or training in research methodologies, data analysis, and inclusive practices related to autism and intellectual disabilities.
•    At least 5+ years of experience in conducting research or program evaluations, specifically in the field of disability rights, inclusive education, or child welfare.
•    At least 5 years of experiences in working with children with autism or intellectual disabilities, including knowledge of their unique needs and challenges.
•    Strong expertise in quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, including survey design, data collection, and statistical analysis.
•    Ability to analyze and interpret complex data sets to derive meaningful insights and recommendations.
•    In-depth understanding of national and international policies related to the rights of children with disabilities, inclusive education, and community support services.
•    Familiarity with local contexts and cultural considerations affecting the lives of children with autism and intellectual disabilities in Vietnam.
•    Excellent written and verbal communication skills to effectively present findings and recommendations to diverse audiences, including children, families, and policymakers.
•    Ability to create child-friendly materials and facilitate inclusive discussions with children and families.
•    Awareness and understanding of cultural nuances related to disability and inclusion in Vietnam.