Being there

Abstract

This paper examines the use of the Internet as experienced by people with significant mobility/physical impairments who are accustomed to using computers. The study is based on interviews and focuses on computer usage in everyday action and interaction. In many cases, the possibilities that the computer and Internet offer have meant not only important improvements in quality of life, but first-time occurrences of great personal significance. The analysis is phenomenographic, resulting in main categories and subcategories, illustrated primarily through direct quotations. The three main categories are independence, communication, and learning.

‘I know, I can, I will try’: youths and adults with intellectual disabilities in Sweden using information and communication technology in their everyday life

“…Extensive research exists that focuses on how, from various perspectives, information and communication technology (ICT) is used by adults, youths, and children. Some of this research deals with disability and ICT, and focuses on online community discussions among people with disabilities (Anderberg 2007), while other research explores Internet use among people with mobility/physical disabilities who are familiar with computers (Anderberg and Jönsson 2005). Harris (2010, 429) conducted research that aimed: '… to explore the challenges, barriers and facilitators to acceptance and acceptability of advanced technological devices designed to assist and support independent living'.…”

Psychosocial impacts of engaging in Second Life for individuals with physical disabilities

“…With relatively limited leisure opportunities, these individuals are proposed to be at risk of developing a range of negative psychological symptoms, such as dependant behavioural patterns, learned helplessness and depression (Turner & Beiser, 1990;Turner & Noh, 1988). Conversely, Virtual Reality interventions, as well as everyday online experiences, have been found to provide positive and enjoyable leisure opportunities, and can result in enhanced enthusiasm, promote independence, self-esteem and self-empowerment (Anderberg & Jonsson, 2005;Siriaraya, Ang, & Bobrowicz, 2014;Weiss, Bialik, & Kizony, 2003). The clinical usage for such programs has begun to be used in assessment and as an intervention tool in the rehabilitation of individuals with disabilities and cognitive impairments (Cheung, Maron, Tatla, & Jarus, 2013;Reid, 2002;Resnik, Etter, Klingerm, & Kambe, 2011;Rizzo, Buckwalter, & Van der Zagg, 2002;Yang, Lin, Lin, & Lee, 2013), in addition to showing effectiveness in cognitive rehabilitation in a range of studies (see Larson, Feigon, Gagliardo, & Dvorkin, 2014;Rose, Brooks, & Rizzo, 2005).…”

Required to be creative. Everyday ways for dealing with inaccessibility

“…A striking finding is that informants often use various websites, apps, social media, keyboard shortcuts, or other digital procedures to mitigate accessibility troubles, sometimes in relation to digital arenas, sometimes in relation to spatial ones (cf. Anderberg and J€ onsson 2005;Anderberg 2007, 252). Although these procedures are used by anyone in society (living with a disability, or not), their use seems to be a bit more intensified, generalized, and crucial for people with disabilities.…”