Scaffolding Digital Literacy Through Digital Skills Training for Disabled People in the Global South: Research Summary

About:

Over a billion people live with disabilities, yet many in low- and middle-income countries struggle to access mobile technology, widening inequalities.

This study explores how digital training can help bridge this gap, empowering people with disabilities by enhancing their mobile skills and fostering greater independence.

Findings

The study implemented a structured training intervention for people with visual and hearing impairments in India and Kenya, emphasising modular, personalized learning.

Key findings include:

• Customised training and one-on-one support improved digital skills.
• WhatsApp groups reinforced learning, while smartphones and accessibility apps enabled self-learning.
• Peer interaction fostered knowledge-sharing and confidence.

This study highlights the impact of digital scaffolding, where WhatsApp groups reinforced learning, fostering peer support and independent skill development. It also extends Vygotsky's Scaffolding Theory to the digital learning context, proposing a new framework for inclusive training.