In our paper we explore the transformative power of a collaborative research on our
own academic perceptions and functions. We have been working with hard of hearing
youths since the autumn of 2021 in Szeged (Hungary) in a social citizen science case
study within the YouCount project to increase social inclusion in the city. During
the process, we, authors of this paper, as senior hearing academics, identified significant
aspects where our academic functions led to inner transformations. These experiences
led us to recognize the overwhelming importance of relational aspects and caring,
the perceived and fostered “slowness” of the research. Inclusion can be viewed as
a joint and interdependent transformation of all actors involved towards the defragmentation
of community.
