Assistive Technologies and Mass Media: An Empirical Study on theInfluence of Their Usage and Consumption on Persons withDisabilities in Ahmedabad

Abstract

The exponential rise of smartphones and devices in recent
years has changed the way Persons with Disabilities (PwDs)
interact with the world. India’s Rights of Persons with
Disabilities Act, 2016 recognizes the role assistive technology
plays in the inclusion of PwDs in the mainstream. The present
study encompasses the findings of four focused group
discussions (FGDs) organized at four Ahmedabad-based NGOs
working with disability spectrum including visual impairment,
speech and hearing impairment and orthopaedic impairment
to understand the usage of assistive devices by PwDs and its
role in helping their assimilation in the society. Key findings
pointed at a very high rate of smartphone usage by the PwDs
for their daily activities and connect to the world, reliance on
computer skills to find a good job and adopting new
technologies for improved mobility. The 5As of Access –
Availability, Accessibility, Affordability, Appropriateness and
Acceptability – play a crucial role in the PwDs to adopt new
technology. The respondents also pointed out the role of
media and society at large to create inclusiveness and creating
opportunities for the PwDs