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Assistive technology for developmental conditions: A scientometric analysis
Dorina Shermadhi1, Alessandro Carollo1, Eman Gaad2
1Department of Psychology and Cognitive Science, University of Trento, Rovereto 38068, Italy.
Research in Developmental Disabilities
|January 9, 2026
Summary
Assistive technology enhances independence for individuals with developmental conditions. Key research areas include communication, mobility, cognitive functions, and social cognition, promoting inclusive, neurodiversity-oriented design.
Area of Science:
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Human-Computer Interaction
- Developmental Psychology
Background:
- Assistive technology (AT) is crucial for individuals with developmental conditions, improving independence across physical, cognitive, and communication areas.
- Barriers to AT adoption include high costs, usability issues, and limited real-world application.
- Understanding research trends and influential publications is vital for advancing AT development and implementation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To provide a comprehensive overview of assistive technology's role in developmental conditions.
- To identify key research areas and influential publications using a scientometric approach.
- To analyze thematic clusters and recurrent research themes in the field.
Main Methods:
- Scientometric analysis of 1322 documents from Scopus and their 44,699 references.
- Co-citation analysis to identify thematic clusters and influential publications.
- Qualitative analysis of identified research themes.
Main Results:
- Three main thematic clusters emerged: communication/mobility in profound conditions, cognitive functions/autonomy in developmental/intellectual conditions, and communication/social cognition in autism.
- Four highly impactful publications were identified, with the most influential by Lancioni and Singh (2014).
- Research highlights the integration of AT in therapy, education, and daily life, enhancing quality of life and social participation.
Conclusions:
- Assistive technology significantly improves autonomy and social participation for individuals with developmental conditions.
- Ethical considerations emphasize designing AT that respects user preferences and avoids neurotypical norms.
- Co-participation in design fosters personalized, inclusive, and neurodiversity-affirming AT solutions.
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