Our Research Focus

Basic Science Research

Basic science research is intended to result in a gain in knowledge in a particular field, which extends understanding of that topic and provides a way of solving practical problems. One example might be how brain cells communicate with each other in Autistic persons.

Clinical Practice

Clinical practice refers to the activities carried out in a medical setting with practitioners’ patients. Some of these are based on guidelines that specify how diagnosis and treatment should be carried out in a particular condition. Clear and strict guidelines around autism diagnosis ensures that the proper support and care needs of Autistic individuals are provided.

Clinical Research

Clinical research determines whether or not medications, devices, or diagnostic methods are effective and safe for humans. This includes research being carried out by MacART members who are testing medications that can be part of a care and support plan for some Autistic persons’ needs.

Epidemiology & Statistical Modelling

Epidemiology is the study of how many people in a given population have a specific condition, what factors are related to its cause, and what treats or controls it. A statistical model is a representation of reality using numbers and other data derived from research. Models can be used to simulate reality. By changing a model using different characteristics, different outcomes for Autistic children could be predicted.

Knowledge Translation & Exchange

Knowledge translation and exchange (KTE) is a collaborative process. The goal of MacART’s KTE core is to involve all stakeholders in each step of the research cycle. Community members have been asking for research that addresses their real-world problems and MacART is committed to responding to their ask. Findings of research will be shared with parents, Autistic persons, other researchers, clinicians, educators, and policymakers through consultation, conferences, and our website. This KTE process aims to advance autism care through meaningful research by encouraging the use of evidence to inform clinical practice and policy.

Social Science Research

Social science research examines those aspects of a family’s situation that can have negative or positive influences on child development. A family’s income, the composition of the family, the services and supports available to them, the neighbourhood and community in which they live, their ethnic/cultural background, and their family history are all factors that can influence Autistic children’s outcomes.