Inclusion through technology: findings from a public engagement approach

Area of Science:

• Disability Studies
• Human-Computer Interaction
• Sociology of Technology

Background:

• People with disabilities in Switzerland experience significant exclusion in mobility, work, and leisure.
• Assistive technologies (AT) offer potential for enhanced participation and well-being.
• User involvement in AT development is crucial for effective solutions.

Purpose of the Study:

• To explore societal perspectives on technology-mediated inclusion for people with disabilities.
• To understand public views on the role of AT in promoting participation.
• To identify barriers and facilitators to inclusion through technology.

Main Methods:

• Public engagement approach at the Swiss Abilities Fair 2024.
• Interactive testing of AT (e.g., robotic arm, recumbent trike).
• Semi-structured interviews with participants with and without disabilities, analyzed via qualitative content analysis.

Main Results:

• Forty-one individuals participated, with differing perspectives between disabled and non-disabled groups.
• Non-disabled participants highlighted equality and acceptance.
• Participants with mobility impairments focused on existing barriers and needed support; AT seen as key to independence, but innovation, access, and affordability gaps persist.

Conclusions:

• Inclusion is a collective societal responsibility necessitating awareness and adaptable solutions.
• AT can foster independence and participation, but affordability, accessibility, user input, and systemic changes are vital for genuine inclusion.