Assistive Technology Divide: A Developing Country Perspective

Abstract

Use of ICTs, in relation to physical challenge, especially visual impairment, is a problematic issue. This study explored awareness, accessibility and use of specialized ICTs among visually impaired adults in selected urban cities in South- eastern Nigeria. Thirty In-depth Interviews were conducted among visually impaired students and government employees. The study established a general awareness of ICTs, and limited awareness of specialized ICTs, among these visually impaired persons. It also found that use of specialized ICTs among them appeared a distant reality. This led to the conclusion that a ‘divide’ exists in terms of accessibility and use of assistive technology for the visually impaired persons in this region. The study recommended individual and governmental interventions, to help bridge this ‘divide’.

Keywords:          Assistive Technology Divide, Visually Impaired, Specialized ICTs.

DOI: 10.7176/DCS/9-4-13

Publication date: April 30^th 2019