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Assistive Technology Makerspaces Promote Capability of Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities

Author

Listed:
  • Alyssa Boccardi

    (Occupational Therapy Department, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA)

  • Kimberly A. Szucs

    (Occupational Therapy Department, Duquesne University, Pittsburgh, PA 15282, USA)

  • Ikenna D. Ebuenyi

    (Department of Rehabilitation Science and Technology, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15206, USA)

  • Anand Mhatre

    (Division of Occupational Therapy, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH 43210, USA)

Abstract

Makerspaces can engage people with disabilities in the design and development of assistive technology (AT) that can enhance their capabilities to perform new activities and function. However, the adoption of makerspaces in the environments and institutions serving people with disabilities remains challenging. The authors modeled a makerspace training program, an environmental intervention, based on the capability approach framework. This mixed methods study investigates the feasibility of an 8-week program to train adults ( n = 5) with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and staff members ( n = 5) at a community services center. Study outcomes were measured using knowledge tests, surveys, QUEST 2.0 and interviews. Results indicate a significant increase in staff’s knowledge ( p = 0.035) and familiarity with program topics ( p < 0.05). Participants with IDD were highly satisfied with the ease of use, weight and effectiveness of the AT devices they created. Five themes emerged from the thematic analysis of interviews: (1) inclusive environment, (2) freedom and improved Capability for building technology for self or client, (3) multidisciplinary collaboration, (4) interactive program elements, (5) makerspace challenges. Overall, the makerspace training program is a valuable program that empowers people with disabilities and ensures the realization of their right of autonomy to create their own AT.

Suggested Citation

  • Alyssa Boccardi & Kimberly A. Szucs & Ikenna D. Ebuenyi & Anand Mhatre, 2022. "Assistive Technology Makerspaces Promote Capability of Adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities," Societies, MDPI, vol. 12(6), pages 1-19, November.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsoctx:v:12:y:2022:i:6:p:155-:d:961514
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. ., 2006. "Capability Approach," Chapters, in: David Alexander Clark (ed.), The Elgar Companion to Development Studies, chapter 8, Edward Elgar Publishing.
    2. Amartya Sen, 2004. "Capabilities, Lists, And Public Reason: Continuing The Conversation," Feminist Economics, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 10(3), pages 77-80.
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    Cited by:

    1. Natasha Layton & Johan Borg, 2023. "Assistive Technology and the Wellbeing of Societies from a Capabilities Approach," Societies, MDPI, vol. 13(2), pages 1-3, January.

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