Technology Use by Adults With Learning Disabilities: Past, Present and Future Design and Support Practices

This book examines the role that technologies play in the lives of adults with learning disabilities. It analyses how design and support practices can be used to support access to technology in ways that can enhance opportunities and life experiences.

Drawing on international literature and the author’s own research, the book considers what we know about past and present practices of supporting adults with learning disabilities to use technologies. It outlines how support practices can offer opportunities to overcome digital inequalities, offering a framework of core beliefs and knowledge that can inform future initiatives. The book has a particular focus on technologies, policies, practitioner communities and the characteristics of support practice. It also highlights the potential of people with learning disabilities, the potential of technology and the potential of the environment to support technology use.

This important book will be highly relevant reading for academics, researchers and post-graduate students in the field of special educational needs and disabilities, digital education and learning technologies, inclusive education and social work.

Jane Seale is a Professor of Education at the Open University in the UK. Her research interests lie at the intersections between disability, technology and inclusion. One particular focus of her work is the development and evaluation of methods that promote voice and empowerment for adults with learning disabilities.