Generate new evidence & insights.
We answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies, addressing intersectional challenges and research and evidence gaps.
Led by GDI Hub at University College London, with academic and community partners globally, this cluster will answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies to support the evidence base for best practices in assistive technology provision in low- and middle-income countries.
Sub-Programmes
- Data and Evidence Portal: Our Data and Evidence portal combines research from the Rapid Assessments of Assistive Technology and various global studies. The portal aims to improve access to life-changing assistive technology for all.
- What Works: The What Works project focuses on research related to the AT2030 programme, aiming to answer specific questions and gather insights.
- Mobile & Emerging Technology: Mobile and emerging technologies are enhancing assistive devices with features like text-to-speech and eye-gaze control, improving accessibility. However, questions persist about the effectiveness of mobile devices as assistive technology.
- Fellowship Programme: Our Fellowships programme will accelerate emerging talent, helping to answer key research questions.
Latest
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Accelerate Action: International Women’s Day 2025
Josie WestMarch 8, 2025This International Women’s Day (IWD) 2025, the theme Accelerate Action calls for urgent change. IWD point out that full gender parity is not predicted until 2158. This highlights the danger of many women and girls being left behind if current trends go unchallenged. People with disabilities experience heightened vulnerability due to the compounded effects of intersectional marginalisation. Despite making up 16% of the global population, with 80% being of working age, only one-third of people with disabilities are employed.
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Women less likely than men to use mobility aids despite greater need
Jamie Danemayer, Mikaela Bloomberg, Adam Mills, Catherine Holloway, Shereen HusseinDec. 13, 2024GlobalWomen are more likely than men to experience mobility limitations that could benefit from the use of mobility aids but are much less likely to use them when needed, according to a new study from researchers at UCL and the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). Though the prevalence of disability continues to rise among the over fifties, many people do not have access to the mobility aids – such as canes, walkers, or wheelchairs – that are essential for maintaining independence and social engagement.
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Demographic, socioeconomic, and social barriers to use of mobility assistive products: a multistate analysis of the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing
Jamie Danemayer, Mikaela Bloomberg, Adam Mills, Catherine Holloway, Shereen HusseinDec. 12, 2024Academic Research PublicationsFactors like age, gender, location, and socioeconomic status influence access to assistive technology. While much research focuses on devices like glasses and hearing aids, mobility aids (e.g., wheelchairs) often receive less attention despite growing demand. Understanding these access disparities is crucial for identifying the groups most in need of support and guiding better policies.
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Exploring Information Needs for Tracking to Support Using Wheelchairs in Everyday Life: Research Summary
Wen Mo, Catherine Holloway, Aneesha SinghNov. 7, 2024Research SummariesThis study explores the tracking needs of wheelchair users, surveying 53 participants to understand their data preferences. Findings reveal strong interest in tracking wheelchair maintenance, accessibility, and physiological data like heart rate and pain. Users also seek to monitor social interactions and wheelchair skill development for both physical and mental well-being. Challenges include limited tracking tools, data accuracy issues, and concerns about privacy. The study calls for affordable, accurate tracking systems integrating mobility, health, and environmental data to enhance user experience and support policy reform.
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A Systematic Review of Ability-diverse Collaboration through Ability-based Lens in HCI Research Summary
Catherine Holloway, Lan Xiao, Katrin Angerbauer, Tigmanshu Bhatnagar, Weiyue Lin, Maryam Bandukda, Michael SedlmairNov. 1, 2024Research SummariesThis paper analyses 117 articles from the ACM Digital Library over the past two decades, offering (1) a unified taxonomy and the Ability-Diverse Collaboration Framework, (2) a reflective discussion of the current design landscape, and (3) insights into future research opportunities and challenges. We have also made our data and analysis tool available for contributions from the HCI research community.