Inclusive technologies

Making usage accessible and enabling participation

What does inclusive technology mean?

According to the National Disability Coordination Officer Program (NDCO), inclusive technology, "in a broader sense, is a technology that helps someone participate in his or her environment through adaptation and accessibility whether it is computers, environmental access and control ("electronic aid") or Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Inclusive Technology encompasses a very broad area of need and is a dynamic with new and emerging technologies providing opportunities for users. It can be described as 'a tool to assist in the accomplishment of one or more tasks that would be difficult or impossible to complete without the intervention or assistance over time, using only the available resources.' Inclusive Technology can play a vital role in supporting students, apprentices, trainees and workers in negotiating and completing tasks involving reading, writing, research, study, planning and organisation and many other tasks. With the evolution of smart phones and tablets has come the need to ensure that all devices are accessible. Both Apple and Google (Android) have ensured that devices are equipped with software that allows users to learn and engage like never before."

Inclusive technologies for education

Inclusive technology is essential to make content accessible to all students.
In the video below, an academic panel discusses how inclusive technology can be strategically assessed. Furthermore, it provides insights into successful inclusive technology programmes that have helped faculty enhanced course content accessibility.



Examples of inclusive technology that is used for educational purposes are:

Would you like to see how they do it at the University of Tasmania? Make sure to check out the website of ADCET (Australian Disability Clearinghouse on Education and Training).

Would you like to book a consultation for your own organisation instead?