Low-tech Assistive Technology to Support Students with Disability in Low-income Countries

Abstract

While many low-income countries are signatories to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities (CRPD), providing for the needs of students with disabilities in these countries is often difficult. Many governments in low-income countries experience difficulties in obtaining and supplying appropriate assistive devices and products to people in need; have issues with poor infrastructure and in general lack appropriate knowledge around the types of assistive technologies (ATs) available and how to use these to assist people with disabilities. The authors of this chapter will discuss the use of low-tech AT for students with disabilities in low-income countries, the benefits for inclusion and the difficulties involved. Reference to India will be used to explore the use of low-tech AT in a low-income country. Included in the chapter will be information on an innovative problem-based learning project implemented in six countries (five of which may be considered low-income countries), undertaken with preservice and in-service teachers.

Citation

Jadhav, V., Chambers, D. and Tatpuje, D. (2020), "Low-tech Assistive Technology to Support Students with Disability in Low-income Countries", Chambers, D. (Ed.) Assistive Technology to Support Inclusive Education (International Perspectives on Inclusive Education, Vol. 14), Emerald Publishing Limited, Leeds, pp. 37-50. https://doi.org/10.1108/S1479-363620200000014006