Supporting Social Inclusion with DIY-ATs: Perspectives of Kenyan Caregivers of Children with Cognitive Disabilities

Abstract

Do-It-Yourself assistive technologies (DIY-ATs) that can be designed, fabricated, or customized by non-technical individuals can enable people with disabilities and their community members to create and customize their own technological solutions. DIY-ATs may better fit user needs than mass-produced alternatives. Recently, researchers have started to explore the possibilities and challenges of using DIY-ATs in contexts other than the Global North, where access to digital ATs is limited. Previous research has not yet studied the perspectives of caregivers of children with disabilities towards these technologies. We present findings from an interview study with caregivers of children and youth with cognitive disabilities in Western Kenya who used a DIY-AT system as a research probe. Participants described how negative beliefs about people with disabilities result in social exclusion and discrimination and explained how increased opportunities for social interaction and learning mediated through DIY and other customizable ATs for their children could support their inclusion, safety, and access to future opportunities.