The world as we know it today has grown to have a tremendous push for equal rights for all people, especially minorities and stigmatized communities. Disabled people make up a large number of these communities, and with the help of the voices from able bodied persons, technology has been able to be inverted and invented for better accessibility. Everyone deserves to live their life the way they wish to, and with better technology for those with disabilities, our world can become a fairer place. This technology can be as simple as the use of wheelchairs (electric and standard ones), ramps, crutches, and more complex, such as higher level tech that assist people in activities such as typing, driving, remembering, pointing, seeing, hearing, learning, and walking.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT) is accessible and digital technology that breaks the traditional barriers to communication, interaction, and information access for people with disabilities. Increasing service provisions through ICTs used as accessible devices levels the playing field for people with disabilities. Between these and accessible internet access, technology for people with disabilities would be advanced even further, and for the better.
Another exciting area of innovation is in assistive communication devices for those with speech impairments. These devices, often referred to as augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems, are transforming lives by providing a voice to those who struggle to speak. Imagine a speech-generating device (SGD) that turns text or symbols into spoken words, enabling users to communicate with ease. Whether through touchscreens, eye tracking, or switches, there are tools made to meet diverse needs, making them accessible to a wide range of users. With features such as predictive text and customizable interfaces, AAC devices are not just about communication; it’s about empowerment. They open up new possibilities in social interactions, education, and employment; helping people to connect, learn, and thrive in their communities. It is a powerful reminder of how technology can make the world a more inclusive place for everyone!
We have heard the myths and misconceptions based around AI and AI technology. However, improving the use of AI for people with disabilities is a reasonable decision, one that is more beneficial compared to the essay bots and online sites we see using it today. An example of this is an app called BeMyEyes, quoted in a recent CNN article. The app uses OpenAI to help describe and thus see what is in front of them. It is of great importance that AI is designed and used for inclusive and accessible purposes (Duffy, 2024). Speech recognition tools, including translators, voice assistants and voice-to-text apps, can be very important, and useful for disabled users.
Conclusively, one of the main ways we can learn more about the needs of people with disabilities is simply by observing. Observing the way the world around us is set up for access as we go about our daily tasks will help us to develop technology that gives more people the ability to live freely and without worry. We should keep in mind that as people are able to go about our days without any sort of required assistance, we are already living with extreme examples of privilege. It is important to look around us and think about how disabled people would get to the same classes, jobs, shops and grocery stores that we go to everyday. If there isn’t a way for everyone to do something, the chances are, there is an easy way to fix it.
References
Duffy, C. (2024, July 8). ‘We don’t want to leave people behind’: AI is helping disabled people in surprising new ways. Business / Tech. Retrieved July 15, 2024, from https://www.cnn.com/2024/07/08/tech/ai-assistive-technology-disabilities/index.html.
Hartmann, A. (n.d.). What is AAC?. AssistiveWare. https://www.assistiveware.com/learn-aac/what-is-aac
Raja, D. S. (2016). Bridging the disability divide through digital technologies. Background paper for the World Development report.
World Economic Forum. (2021, July 5). Technology can level the playing field for people with disabilities in the workforce. World Economic Forum. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/07/digital-technology-workforce-disabled-people/
World Economic Forum. (2021, June 9). Why we need to get more people with disabilities involved in developing technology. World Economic Forum. https://www.weforum.org/agenda/2021/06/people-with-disabilities-developing-technology/
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