Description
This chapter reviews research involving the use of assistive technology (AT) to support and empower postsecondary students with disabilities. Three areas of research related to AT for postsecondary students are reviewed: (a) survey research to identify the types of AT options available, (b) intervention studies to evaluate the potential benefits of AT, and (c) research to identify obstacles to the provision or continued use of AT. The chapter concludes that a wide array of AT options for students with varying disabilities exists. However, intervention research evaluating the potential benefits of the various forms of AT is sparse, precluding firm conclusions regarding the effects of any specific form of AT on postsecondary students’ educational outcomes. Furthermore, students with disabilities may struggle to obtain AT support from their institution of higher education, and even when AT is readily available, some students stop using it over time. Recommendations regarding AT for postsecondary students with disabilities are presented and directions for future research are offered.
Citation
Lang, R., Ramdoss, S., Sigafoos, J., Green, V., van der Meer, L., Tostanoski, A., . . . O’Reilly, M. (2014). Assistive technology for postsecondary students with disabilities. In G. Lancioni & N. Singh (Eds.), Assistive technology for people with diverse abilities (pp. 53–76). New York, NY: Springer.