Using Wireless Technology to Support Social Connectedness in Individuals With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities: A Focus Group Study

Abstract

Despite the pervasive use of wireless technology in today’s society, people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have limited access to technology. Technology is underutilized by this population for a variety of reasons including cost-related barriers and cognitive inaccessibility of devices and software applications. The lack of accessibility of these technologies is concerning, as people with disabilities often rely on technology to enhance independence and social integration. In the present study, a series of focus groups were conducted to determine what technologies individuals with IDD were using to navigate social environments and how they were using these technologies to improve their access to meaningful social experiences. Data were analyzed using a qualitative descriptive approach and an iterative, multi-cycle coding process. Six major themes emerged from the data, including Hardware and Software, Accessibility Features, Reasons for Connecting Socially, Barriers to and Supports for Connectivity, Concerns or Fears about Connectivity, and Outcomes of Social Connectivity. Findings have the potential to inform best practices for educators, transition specialists, parents, individuals with disabilities, and other stakeholders to advocate for increased training around and access to web-based technologies.