Inclusion based on technologies: Society's perspective

Analysing social perspectives on inclusion using technology as part of a public engagement approach.

Factsheet

Schools involved School of Health Professions
School of Engineering and Computer Science
Institute(s) Institute for Human Centered Engineering (HUCE)
Physiotherapy
Strategic thematic field Thematic field "Humane Digital Transformation"
Funding organisation BFH
Duration (planned) 01.11.2024 - 01.04.2025
Head of project Dr. Anja Raab
Project staff Barbara Catherine Wortmann
Iris de Boer
Vanessa Grand
Aline Christen
Prof. Dr. Gabriel Gruener
Julian Rösch
Heiner Baur
Keywords Public Engagement, Inclusion, People with disabilities, Technology

Situation

‘Inclusion is when everyone is allowed to participate’ (Aktion Mensch, n.d.). Four out of five people with disabilities nevertheless feel excluded in Switzerland - particularly in the areas of mobility, work, politics and leisure (Pro Infirmis, 2023). Assistive technologies could strengthen their participation by maintaining their ability to function and improving their well-being. The WHO recommends involving those affected in the development of such technologies to ensure safety, effectiveness and affordability. Public relations work and the reduction of stigmatisation are essential for an inclusive society (WHO & UNICEF, 2022).

Course of action

The setting was the Swiss Abilities Fair 2024 in Lucerne (https://www.swiss-abilities.ch/de/messe). A prototype of a newly developed robotic arm and a recumbent bike, both for people with tetraplegia, were exhibited at our stand as examples of possible assistance technologies. Visitors were able to test these two technologies. Subsequently, three physiotherapists and a researcher in a wheelchair conducted semi-structured individual interviews in which the interviewees could also ask questions on the topic. This resulted in an interactive dialogue on the topic of ‘inclusion using technology’, after they themselves were able to take on the perspective of someone affected. The data was audiographed, transcribed and subjected to a qualitative content analysis. The sample comprised people with and without disabilities.

Result

A total of 41 people took part (4h 55min audio material), 27 of whom had no mobility restrictions and 14 of whom were in wheelchairs. The analysis revealed interesting differences in the perception of inclusion between the groups. The pedestrians often viewed the topic more abstractly and tended to emphasise equal opportunities and social acceptance. Wheelchair users, on the other hand, focussed on concrete barriers and practical support and implementation. Eight participants had difficulty defining the term ‘inclusion’ - even though they were visiting a trade fair that deals with the topics of equality and participation of people with disabilities. This indicates that the topic is not yet fully understood in some sectors of the population, even among people who come into contact with this topic.

Looking ahead

The analysis showed that assistive technologies are perceived as an important factor for inclusion, particularly because they can remove barriers and improve independence and participation. However, high costs, low availability and a lack of flexibility make access difficult. Direct involvement of those affected in the development processes of assistive technologies is essential. At the same time, however, it is clear that technology alone is not enough to enable inclusion - social sensitisation and early integration in education, the world of work and the general public are of central importance. Public engagement is proving to be a good strategy for promoting inclusion processes in our society.