Emerging issues and current trends in assistive technology use 2007-2010: practising, assisting and enabling learning...

Area of Science:

• Educational Technology
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Disability Studies

Background:

• A previous review in 2007 established a baseline for assistive technology (AT) research.
• The period 2007-2011 saw significant shifts in technology, necessitating an updated review.
• Understanding AT's role for children and young people is crucial for inclusive education.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review and synthesize academic literature on assistive technology (AT) uses for children and young people.
• To identify key research trends and developments in AT between 2007 and 2011.
• To structure findings using a tripartite taxonomy: training/practice, assisting, and enabling learning.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of academic literature published between 2007 and 2011.
• Application of a tripartite taxonomy to categorize the uses of assistive technology.
• Identification of key research markers and emerging themes within the reviewed period.

Main Results:

• Key research markers included user involvement, AT on mobile mainstream devices, and AT visibility.
• Emerging themes involved technology for interaction and collaboration, new interfaces, and inclusive design.
• Findings were categorized into technology for training/practice, assisting learning, and enabling learning.

Conclusions:

• Assistive technology research for young people has advanced, particularly in mobile and interactive applications.
• Inclusive design principles and user involvement are increasingly recognized as critical.
• These developments are situated within the broader context of the Digital Divide.