NIDRR plans for the future

For over 5 years now, the National Institute on Disability and Rehabilitation Research (NIDRR) has not had a well-defined, written long-range plan. A new plan is needed to establish a research agenda for NIDRR. This article outlines steps taken in the development of the long-range plan. As well, it describes outcome areas, goals, and objectives underlying the plan's overall focus: empowering persons with disabilities to achieve maximum freedom and independence. Dissemination connects research and empowerment. The use of disseminated knowledge is a key factor in the long-range plan's elements. NIDRR and its grantees employ four basic dissemination strategies: spread, choice, exchange, and implementation. These strategies, with examples of their application, are briefly discussed. The article also defines "participatory research," a practice in which those who will benefit from the research are deeply involved throughout the process. As well, the article defines participatory research's importance in the long-range plan.