. SP 1: Research, Evidence and Impact

Led by GDI Hub at UCL. Framing the economics of AT around a mission-led approach; developing a return on investment framework and researching what works to overcome stigma as well as focusing on the support to the development of the Global Report on Assistive Technology, evidence of local production systems for AT in LMICs, the exploration of early child mobility in LMIC and the development of a series of virtual live labs. Partners include: IIPP, All Institute, Leonard Cheshire Disability, WHO, ISPO, LSHTM, CBM International, GAATO

A group of participants standing next to a chart with sticky notes and handwriting describing uses of various Assisive Technologies

Credits: Angus Stewart

Humanitarian

In 2020, a new strand of humanitarian research was incorporated into this sub-programme intended to:

  • Improve understanding of the need for AT in humanitarian settings
  • Compile evidence of current provision and practice across a variety of humanitarian contexts
  • Provide case study examples of ‘what works’
  • Provide recommendations for action by key stakeholders, particularly global humanitarian coordination bodies and actors
  • Disseminate findings through working papers and conference attendance

Latest

  • A screenshot of Guidelines for assistive technology service provision – A scoping review Cover Image

    Guidelines for assistive technology service provision – A scoping review

    Natasha Layton, Luc De Witte, Alice Spann, Evert Jan Hoogerwerf, Silvana Contepomi, Mehedi Khan Kobe, Diane Bell
    March 12, 2024
    Global
    Academic Research Publications

    Despite the high unmet need for effective AT provision, multiple service delivery models across different countries, and a shortage of personnel trained in this field, no widely useable and accepted Assistive Technology (AT) service provision guidelines currently exist. This review aims to provide an overview of the literature regarding AT service provision guidelines to inform the development of globally useable AT provision guidance, aligned with contemporary global initiatives to improve access to AT.

  • Felista Kasina holding a phone Cover Image

    A Journey with Technology

    Harrison Kamau
    March 8, 2024
    Kenya

    What makes Felista's adjustment remarkable is the user-friendly design of her device, especially its short applications that simplify tasks, such as efficient navigation. The training she received on utilizing voice commands with Google has proven to be a positive change, enabling her to effortlessly send voice messages.

  • John Mwangi using a mobile phone Cover Image

    Digital assistive technology - Joseph's story

    Harrison Kamau
    March 8, 2024
    Kenya

    John Mwangi's story serves as a realistic portrayal of the intersection between technology and disability, showcasing the everyday impact on individuals' lives. It echoes a larger narrative unfolding on a global scale, where smartphones are emerging as powerful tools to transform the lives of persons with disabilities.

  • Text : Mobile as AT Cover Image

    Mobile as AT Kenya

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Harrison Kamau
    Feb. 28, 2024
    Kenya

    This project measures how mobile phones act as an assistive technology and how the technology alongside training can transform lives.

  • A screenshot on Suleimans story from youtube Cover Image

    Spotlight on Sierra Leone – Meet Sulaiman

    Koalaa
    Feb. 27, 2024
    Sierra Leone

    Sulaiman is 28 years old 'top-up' seller for mobile phone sim cards, he lives with his wife and children in Makeni, Sierra Leone. Receiving a Koalaa ALX sleeve has been his first experience with prosthetics and one of the ways he loves to use it is to hold his baby daughter.