Sociotechnical challenges faced by students with disability and factors influencing the integration of assistive technologies

Vhutshilo Macheque, Armstrong Kadyamatimba and Nixon Ochara
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Vhutshilo Macheque: University of Venda, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Armstrong Kadyamatimba: University of Venda, Thohoyandou, Limpopo Province, South Africa
Nixon Ochara: University of the Witwatersrand Business School

International Journal of Research in Business and Social Science (2147-4478), 2024, vol. 13, issue 6, 253-269

Abstract: The sociotechnical challenges primarily faced by students with disabilities are significantly hindering their active participation in academic programs. This study, therefore, holds immense importance as it aims to examine these challenges and evaluate the factors influencing the introduction of Assistive Technology in response to these issues. The researchers have used a to delve deep into these challenges and establish potential mitigation strategies for fostering inclusive education and a supportive learning environment. This study uses quantitative and qualitative data to understand factors influencing the integration of ATs in inclusive education. As a result, the study's findings, particularly the absence of a framework in the university disability unit, which is responsible for guiding the use and integration of AT, are crucial for understanding the current state of affairs. The delays in acquiring and delivering ATs result in students missing out on learning how to use the technologies. The use of ATs in the university was affected by the lack of training of lecturers who taught the students living with disabilities. Although there are ATs in the disability unit, they seem to be used by students who need urgent support and who need it in a limited time. Due to these factors, the study concluded that several factors influenced the integration of ATs in inclusive education at the university, and these need to be addressed urgently. This paper recommends that training should be conducted with lecturers and students to use ATs for learning and teaching purposes. Key Words:Conventional, digitalisation, Procurement, digital age, Estrangement, Technophilia

Date: 2024
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