Foad Hamidi, T. Kidane, P. M. Owuor, M. Hynie, Melanie Baljko
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引用次数: 0
Abstract
Do-It-Yourself assistive technologies (DIY-ATs) that can be designed, fabricated, or customized by non-technical individuals can enable people with disabilities and their community members to create and customize their own technological solutions. DIY-ATs may better fit user needs than mass-produced alternatives. Recently, researchers have started to explore the possibilities and challenges of using DIY-ATs in contexts other than the Global North, where access to digital ATs is limited. Previous research has not yet studied the perspectives of caregivers of children with disabilities towards these technologies. We present findings from an interview study with caregivers of children and youth with cognitive disabilities in Western Kenya who used a DIY-AT system as a research probe. Participants described how negative beliefs about people with disabilities result in social exclusion and discrimination and explained how increased opportunities for social interaction and learning mediated through DIY and other customizable ATs for their children could support their inclusion, safety, and access to future opportunities.
期刊介绍:
Computer and information technologies have re-designed the way modern society operates. Their widespread use poses both opportunities and challenges for people who experience various disabilities including age-related disabilities. That is, while there are new avenues to assist individuals with disabilities and provide tools and resources to alleviate the traditional barriers encountered by these individuals, in many cases the technology itself presents barriers to use. ACM Transactions on Accessible Computing (TACCESS) is a quarterly peer-reviewed journal that publishes refereed articles addressing issues of computing that seek to address barriers to access, either creating new solutions or providing for the more inclusive design of technology to provide access for individuals with diverse abilities. The journal provides a technical forum for disseminating innovative research that covers either applications of computing and information technologies to provide assistive systems or inclusive technologies for individuals with disabilities. Some examples are web accessibility for those with visual impairments and blindness as well as web search explorations for those with limited cognitive abilities, technologies to address stroke rehabilitation or dementia care, language support systems deaf signers or those with limited language abilities, and input systems for individuals with limited ability to control traditional mouse and keyboard systems. The journal is of particular interest to SIGACCESS members and delegates to its affiliated conference (i.e., ASSETS) as well as other international accessibility conferences. It serves as a forum for discussions and information exchange between researchers, clinicians, and educators; including rehabilitation personnel who administer assistive technologies; and policy makers concerned with equitable access to information technologies.