Technology Use by Adults with Learning Disabilities: Past, Present and Future Design and Support Practices

by Jane Seale

Overview

This book examines the role that technologies play in the lives of adults with learning disabilities. It analyses how design and support practices can be used to support access to technology in ways that can enhance opportunities and life experiences.

Drawing on international literature and the author’s own research, the book considers what we know about past and present practices of supporting adults with learning disabilities to use technologies. It outlines how support practices can offer opportunities to overcome digital inequalities, offering a framework of core beliefs and knowledge that can inform future initiatives. The book has a particular focus on technologies, policies, practitioner communities and the characteristics of support practice. It also highlights the potential of people with learning disabilities, the potential of technology and the potential of the environment to support technology use.

This important book will be highly relevant reading for academics, researchers and post-graduate students in the field of special educational needs and disabilities, digital education and learning technologies, inclusive education and social work.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780367753580
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis
Publication date:	01/29/2024
Series:	Routledge Research in Special Educational Needs
Pages:	236
Product dimensions:	6.12(w) x 9.19(h) x (d)

About the Author

Jane Seale is a Professor of Education at the Open University in the UK. Her research interests lie at the intersections between disability, technology and inclusion. One particular focus of her work is the development and evaluation of methods that promote voice and empowerment for adults with learning disabilities.

Table of Contents

1. Taking stock of past and present practice. 2. A framework for examining how adults with learning disabilities are supported to use technologies. 3. Exploring narratives of potential: From the perspective of adults with learning disabilities. 4. Technologies of the past: Mixed blessings. 5. Building networks and creating gaps: Past policy initiatives. 6. Support networks of the past: A constellation of communities of practice. 7. Mapping the characteristics of past support practice. 8. Technologies of the present: New design imperatives. 9. Navigating the causes of digital inequalities: Present policy and legislative initiatives. 10. Support networks of the present: A conflict of enterprises? 11. Mapping characteristics of present support practice. 12. Charting a course to a future practice