Exploring usage of assistive technology resources by students with disabilities

Abstract

Low usage of assistive technologies is one of the critical problems despite the positive impact AT has. The study explored the usage of assistive technologies available in the School of Education Special Unit of the University of Dar esSalaam (UDSM). Using exploratory qualitative approach, 15 students with diverse disabilities, 6 student assistants and 2 instructors at UDSM engaged in semi-structured interview which was conducted through face-to-face. The findings report that access to AT resources is not a problem at the UDSM, the main problem is on the use. On perceived importance of the ATs, the findings disclose that students with disabilities perceived that the resources are useful in enhancing learning at the university. Factors such like technophobia, attitudes, low usage knowledge and skills hold back the efforts to effectively utilize the AT resources. The study recommends a close linkage between special unit and libraries, and conducting sensitization workshops.