Affiliations: RERC on Workplace Accommodations and Center for
Advanced Communications Policy, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, GA,
USA
Note: [] Address for correspondence: Paul M.A. Baker, Ph.D., AICP,
Director of Research, Center for Advanced Communications Policy (CACP), Georgia
Institute of Technology, 500 10th St. NW, Atlanta, GA 30318-0620, USA. Tel.: +1
404 385 4618; Fax: +1 404 894 9320; E-mail: [email protected]
Abstract: Teleworking, a restructuring of the manner in which work
occurs, based on information communication technologies (ICTs), is a promising
way of further integrating people with disabilities into the workplace. In
contrast to telecommuting, in which the work is primarily shifted in locale,
telework is a restructuring of the tasks to be accomplished within the larger
work setting which could result in "work" being done remotely, or
collaboratively with coworkers (remotely or not) using ICTs. Drawing upon a
review of the literature, this paper explores the relationship between telework
and people with disabilities. While the advent of telecommuting and
subsequently "teleworking" might open increased opportunities for the hiring
of people with disabilities, it may also place severe constraints on the type
of work, workplace environment and interactions, and accumulation of social
capital for people with disabilities. Whereas much of the prevailing literature
on telework and disability is often proscriptive in nature and is written with
an audience of employers in mind, it is just as important to consider policy
options from the standpoint of the employee as well. This paper proposes a
number of policy approaches for the creation of an inclusive work environment
for teleworkers with disabilities that can minimize, as much as possible, the
social isolation faced by teleworkers with disabilities while maximizing their
participation within the workplace community. Policy objectives for enhancing
telework for people with disabilities fall into three general categories: 1)
research, 2) outreach, and 3) interventions.
Keywords: Telework, disability policy, workplace accommodation, social capital
