July 10, 2026
Source: Center on Community Living and Careers at Indiana University.
NOTE: As a courtesy, the Southeast ADA Center is making you aware of a research study being conducted by Indiana University, Ball State University, and the University of Louisville.
About the Research Study
The Center on Community Living and Careers at Indiana University is currently working on a project through Friendi.fi and Care Coach. The study aims to optimize a conversational agent to support autistic young adults to achieve functional and quality-of-life outcomes. The conversational technology (SMS texting platform), most importantly, features human in the loop protocol. While study participants will be using Fara (the name of the SMS texting app), all interactions are monitored by a team of trained staff 24/7. As participants travel through the 10-week study, they will be engaging additionally with clinicians in a coaching (goal setting) program designed by Friendi.fi. Some folks will be assigned to the technology group; some will be assigned to the traditional human-only coaching group. The current study precedes a planned randomized clinical trial and is completed completely virtually. There is no travel or face-to-face meeting requirements.
We are very excited about outcomes to date but need several more participants. Criteria are pretty simple: have an autism diagnosis, between the ages of 18-35, able to consent, and be a U.S. resident. We never ask for proof of diagnosis.
Ball State University and the University of Louisville are the other two entities assisting with this project and the project is funded by the National Institute of Mental Health. This is a compensated study.
If you are interested in this research study, please take this short survey.
You may also know of community groups, formal groups, meeting spaces, or have other connections that may include or touch individuals who might be interested in the study. I would greatly appreciate your willingness to share about this research study within your networks.
However, do not share in social media because of the potential for scammers responding.
Thank you so much for your support and assistance.
Contact for Questions on Research Study:
Sandra Block, MS. Ed.
Program Coordinator
Center on Community Living and Careers
Indiana Institute on Disability and Community
Indiana University
2810 East Discovery Parkway
Bloomington, Indiana 47408-9801
Phone: 812-855-8243
English