A recent review by researchers including UCRH’s Dr Jodie Bailie has shed light on the concept of codesign in health research, especially when involving young people. Codesign is a way to include stakeholders, like young people, in the research process. However, it’s often defined differently across studies, making it hard to apply consistently and evaluate its effectiveness.
The review looked at studies from 2003 to 2023 that used terms like codesign, coproduction, and participatory research with young people aged 15-24. Out of 1334 publications, 49 were included in the review. These studies involved various groups, including young people with mental health issues, disabilities, and First Nations youth.
The findings showed that many different terms are used to describe codesign, and these terms often overlap with other participatory methods. This overlap suggests that different collaborative approaches might be blended in practice, and it’s important to tailor these approaches to specific projects and participants.
The key takeaway is that while the terms and methods might vary, what’s most important is that researchers are clear about their methods and why they are using them. This transparency helps ensure that the research is effective and inclusive.
