Using assistive technology for schoolwork: the experience of children with physical disabilities

Abstract

Aim. This study explored the experience of children with physical disabilities using assistive technology for participation with schoolwork to gain a greater understanding of their perspectives and subjective experiences.

Method. A qualitative study involving thematic analysis of in-depth interviews of the child with a parent or significant adult. Purposeful sampling from a larger study recruited five children aged between 10 and 14 years, with differing physical disabilities who attended mainstream schools. All children used computer-based assistive technology.

Results. All of the children recognised that assistive technology enabled them to participate and reduced the impact of their physical disability, allowing independent participation, and facilitated higher learning outcomes. Issues related to ease of use, social implications and assistive technology systems are discussed.

Keywords:

• Assistive technology
• physical disability
• education
• children

Acknowledgements

The study was undertaken with the assistance of a Channel 7 Children's Research Foundation Grant. The authors are grateful and thank the children, their parents, and carers who participated in this study, giving their time freely; Annabelle Tillbrook and Sue van de Loo, Senior Occupational Therapists for their ideas in the conceptualisation of this project; and the support of the Dr Raghavendra, Manager, Research and Innovation Division, Novita Children's Service.