ICT (Information and Communication Technology): A natural part of life for children with disabilities?

Article type: Research Article

Authors: Lindstrand, Peg

Affiliations: Stockholm Institute of Education, Department of Human Development, Learning and Special Education, The Disability and Handicap Research Group, P.O. Box 47 308, SE-100 74 Stockholm, Sweden. Tel: +46 8 768 57 73; Fax: +46 8 737 96 30; E-mail: [email protected]

Abstract: This study highlights some aspects of what it is like to live with children with disabilities in the IT-age. What experiences and expectations do families with children with disabilities express concerning new technology and computers? Computer technology creates expectations and raises hopes of compensation and increased possibilities. The purpose of this study is to highlight what factors interact to make a tool like ICT develop into an aid for the child. The study is based on interviews with seven families of children with severe and multiple disabilities.

Keywords: ICT, children, parents, multiple disabilities

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-2002-14204

Journal: Technology and Disability, vol. 14, no. 2, pp. 75-83, 2002