DIGITAL LITERACY IN PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES: AN OVERVIEW AND NARRATIVE REVIEW
Digital literacy refers to the ability to effectively use digital technologies for tasks such as finding, evaluating, creating, and communicating information. It is particularly beneficial for people with disabilities as it opens up opportunities for them in the digital world. To ensure their full participation, efforts to promote digital literacy should prioritize inclusive design principles. People with disabilities often rely on assistive technologies like screen readers, alternative input devices, voice recognition software, or specialized hardware to navigate digital platforms. Therefore, digital literacy programs should not only focus on consuming content but also on creating and sharing it through various mediums. Peer support and collaboration play a crucial role in enhancing their learning experience. In addition to teaching digital skills, these programs should address cybersecurity and online safety considerations specific to such people. They should provide training and support for using assistive technologies effectively, while also educating them about potential risks, privacy settings, and safe online practices. A review of available research on digital literacy for people with disabilities revealed a growing number of publications in recent years. However, the topics covered in these publications are unevenly distributed, leaving room for future research to focus on areas such as measurement and training of digital literacies for both teachers and students with disabilities. By promoting digital literacy among individuals with disabilities, we can bridge the digital divide and empower them to fully participate in today’s increasingly digital society.
Keywords: Digital Divide, Empowerment, Assistive Technology, Artificial Intelligence,
Running Title: Overview of digital literacy in people with disabilities
Abbreviations: ADA: Americans with Disability Act; ADD/ADHD: Attention Deficit/Hyperactivity Disorder; AR: Augmented Reality; ASD: Autism Spectrum Disorder; AT: Assistive Technology; CWDs: Children with Disabilities; DHH: Deaf or Hard of Hearing; DL-Digital Literacy; ICT: Information Communication Technology; ID: Intellectual Disabilities; IOT: Internet of Things;IT: Information Technology; LD: Learning Disabilities; NISA; National Information Society Agency; PID: People with Intelllectual Disabilities; PWDs: People with Disabilities; QOL-Quality of Life; SMI: Severe Mental Illness; VR: Virtual Reality;
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COMPETING INTERESTS: NIL
