Why Does Inclusion Matter with Technology?
There is no one-size-fits-all when it comes to technology and technological advancements. The end goal may be the same for everyone, but the journey there can be substantially different.
When I was 19, one of my best friends was in a near-fatal accident. He is now paralyzed from the waist down and has limited mobility with his hands. At the time, he felt that he had lost all of his independence and would never be able to do anything by himself. Technology was a great way for all of us to adapt and remind our friend that no matter the situation, he is still his own person and does not have to be entirely dependent on others.
With the accessibility of iPhones, we are able to text, Facetime, and call each other with ease by utilizing dictation. Mario Toboso states that there are different models when it comes to disability. There is medical, social, and diversity. Each model challenges the way that we look at disabilities to find ways to intertwine and "contribute to society if (the) environment is designed taking
specific requirements into account." (Wolske, page 43).
Another great example of one that utilized technology was Stephen Hawking, one of the greatest theoretical physicists who ever lived. Although he was diagnosed with ALS and lost his speaking voice, he used technology to compensate for his impairments, such as a specialized wheelchair and Speech Plus, to communicate.
In What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL), Spencer quotes Ronald Mace, stating we "should design all environments to be usable by all people, without the need for adaptation or specialized design." Being inclusive and equitable allows people from all walks of life to live high-value lives, regardless of what differences they may have.
Citations:
Wolske, M. (2020). Person-centered guide to demystifying technology: Working together to observe/ question/ design/ prototype/ and implement/reject technology in support of people's valued beings and doings. Windsor & Downs Press.
Spencer, J. OurSocialVoice. (2021, August 24). What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? YouTube. Retrieved November 9, 2022, from https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NL2xPwDrGqQ&t=21s
Hey Christine, great post. I am so sorry to hear about your friend, but it makes me happy that you all surrounded him with love and support through his difficult transition. It's amazing how technology can bring us all together. I know it must be challenging for him to get around, but glad the environments around us are continuing to progress to make all environments safe and accessible for everyone.
ReplyDeleteHi Christine! I like your analogy of describing technology as one-size-fits-all. It is true that not one technology device can be beneficial for everyone. But instead, can bring people together and I think that is very beneficial in itself.
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