AAATE
Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe
Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:40:05 +0000
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AAATE Newsletter 2026#2
/2026/03/19/aaate-newsletter-20262/
Thu, 19 Mar 2026 15:37:42 +0000
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Time flies. It’s been two months already since our last newsletter, and we have some exciting updates to share with you. First, we are launching a new series of Research Aperitivos, building on the successful AAATE Aperitivos format, allowing our members to meet and discuss informally online. But we also believe in the power of face-to-face connection. In that spirit we are collaborating with AGH University of Krakow to organise a Workshop about AT and accessibility in the context of higher education in November 2026. AAATE will of course be present at our sister conference, the International Conference on Computers Helping People with special needs (ICCHP), from 15th to 17th of July in Brno, Czech Republic. Young researchers, PhD students and Master Thesis students are invited to submit to the Young Researchers Consortium, taking place just before the conference. It’s an outstanding opportunity to share their work and discuss their research questions with pairs and a group of senior chairs, and to be part of the network of the next generation of researchers in the AT field. Additionally participants are invited to attend the conference. The preliminary programme should be available by May 18th. In November 2026, the Universal Design Conference will take place in Galway. The Call for contribution was just launched (). Submission deadline is on April 8. AAATE is also advancing several projects, and we need your input! Specifically we are launching a survey within the framework of the Upgrade project about accessible gaming. We were present at the Zero Conference 2026 in Vienna. There we recorded two “Fireside chats” – short interviews (15 min) broadcasted live on Youtube, and Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf moderated a session featuring Zero Conference awardees. Collaboration with user organisations is a priority for AAATE. Last month, Pedro Encarnaçao (Past President) and I met with board members of ENIL, European Network on Independent Living () to formalise the partnership between our organisations. Read more details below ! And of course, we’ll meet in Mechelen in 2027, for the next AAATE Conference. We wish you a nice and inspiring spring ! Dominique Archambault, AAATE President With the support of the AAATE team /about/board Contact the team : office@aaate.net AAATE launches the Research Aperitivo! AAATE is pleased to launch the Research Aperitivo, a new informal online initiative aimed at supporting researchers in the field of assistive technology, strengthening research networking within AAATE, and fostering dialogue between research and practice. Building on the broader AAATE Aperitivo format, the Research Aperitivo offers a friendly space where researchers can present work in progress, share open questions, and receive constructive feedback from an interdisciplinary community with expertise in research, service provision, policy, and innovation in assistive technology. Further information on participation and submission is available on the AAATE website : /aaate-research-aperitivo/. AAATE Workshop 2026 Before the COVID period, we have been organising, in collaboration with several institutional members, a series of workshops dedicated to current preoccupations about AT (see the list here : /activities/workshops/). We would like to catch up with this, with a particular focus on young researchers. We are delighted to announce that we started a collaboration with AGH University of Krakow to organise a workshop “Innovative Assistive Technologies and Accessibility in Higher Education”, next November. This workshop will especially allow young researchers to propose oral contributions, and we invite senior researchers to attend and give them valuable feedback. Invited keynotes and round tables will allow for discussions. Save the date and meet us in Krakow on Nov 12-13, 2026. The preliminary programme and call for contributions will soon be available. More information is available here : /activities/workshops/workshop-2026/. News from Projects Since Sep 2025, AAATE is participating in a project on accessible gaming for social inclusion. The UPGRADE project brings together youth organisations, assistive-technology experts and research partners to co-develop an inclusive digital hub, training resources and focus groups (workshops) that make gaming accessible and empowering for young people – especially those at risk of social exclusion. In the project, we will build practical tools, run co-creation labs and share evidence-based strategies to support youth workers, educators and developers. To start off, we would like to assess the level of interest in this project and the level of potential relevance for your work. It would be great if you could take 7 minutes to answer the survey: Zero Project Conference About 1400 participants from 100 countries attended the Zero Project Conference 2026, last months, at the United Nations Office in Vienna. Main topics of the year were Accessibility, ICT, and Crisis Response. AAATE was involved in 3 events :
“The Accessibility Gap in School Policy Documents – and how to bridge it” : an interview of Ann Marcus Quinn from University of Limerick by Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf, our Secretary General. Session information: Youtube recording : “Mainstreaming Accessibility and Universal Design in Higher Education Curricula” : an interview of Dominique Archambault by Sabine Lobnig. Session information : Youtube recording : “Prosthetics that are high-quality, affordable and available” : session moderated by Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf, featuring 3 Zero Project Awardees shaping the next generation of prosthetics. Session Information : Youtube recording :
The Nicosia Declaration As we can see in the Krakow Workshop and one of the ZeroConf participations,, the topic of accessibility of higher education is in the Agenda at the moment. Let me remind you of the Nicosia declaration, launched during the AAATE conference 2025 in European University Cyprus. The declaration has already been endorsed by many individuals and organisations and especially a few universities. By endorsing the Nicosia declaration Universities show a strong political statement about fostering accessibility in their activities. If you did not already, please take some time to read it and endorse it, and if you are working for a university please propose it to your governance. Even if they finally decide not to endorse it, they will have to read it and at least get to know what is needed. Read the Nicosia declaration here : /the-nicosia-declaration/. Recently published in Technology and Disability Technology and Disability, Volume 38, Number 1 was published in February 2026 Review Articles
Integrating artificial intelligence in supporting students with disabilities in higher education: An integrative review, by Cristina Dumitru, Ghaida Muttashar Abdulsahib, Osamah Ibrahim Khalaf and Akram Bennour The use of the social robot NAO to enhance communication skills in children with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review of studies from 2013–2019 to 2020–2025, by Evaggelos Foykas, Eleftheria Beazidou, Charalampos Karagiannidis and Zygouris Nikolaos
Research Articles
Constraints hindering ICT integration among teachers in enhancing literacy and numeracy skills of learners with hearing impairments in Tanzania, by Hamadi Mtani, Shubi Kaijage and Neema Mduma Effects of an adapted hair brush on reducing upper limb physical load in women with long hair, by Carlos Manuel Escobar-Galindo, Dayana Andrea Airas Gómez and José Enrique Villalobos Tupia Audio-description: a path and a proposal for a classificatory model, by Gema López Sánchez Method for the development of assistive technology with postural readjustment using three-dimensional modeling and animation techniques, by Isabella de Souza Sierra Everyday tech, everyday autonomy: Understanding how assistive technology works in UK care settings, by Julie Eshleman Barriers to assistive technology utilization in education: Teachers’ perspectives on challenges and solutions, by Josephine Wilfred Ogondiek
OnlineFirst : Several research articles are already available online, and will be included in the next issue.
Role of novel pressure sensor based alarm system in weight-shift behavior in spinal cord injury survivors – A time series, by Nayana Ramkumar, Shruti Patil and Haritha Jose Digital technology access and usage among students with disability in Bangladeshi higher education, by Md Shahrier Haider A preliminary survey on the use and barriers of cognitive assistive technologies among older adults with cognitive impairment, by Chizuru Kata and Yuko Nishiura Evaluation of wheelchair satisfaction with wheelchair initial-final sitting pressure, by Fatma Erdeo, Mehmet Korkmaz, Sami Küçükşen and Musa Çankaya Learners with disabilities’ perspectives on the requirements for mHealth-based digital journaling to promote subjective well-being, by Ariné Kuyler and Ensa Johnson
You can access Technology and Disability papers when you are connected to the AAATE website with your personnel account : from the Members area go to T&D access page. Job Position(s)
The European Disability Forum is looking for a Consultant for Policy Paper on Assistive Technology in the EU, see all information :
Upcoming events 2026
June 10-12 in Paris: Handicap 2026 (Largest French Speaking conference about AT) (submission deadline Jan 19) July 15-17 in Brno (Czech Republic): ICCHP 2026 – International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs / (submission deadline Feb 9) October 21-22 (Zagreb, Croatia): ATAAC 2026 – Conference on advanced technology for children with developmental disabilities and persons with disabilities (submission deadline March 15) October 25-28 (Porto, Portugal): ASSETS 2026 – 28th International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility November 4-6 in Galway city (Ireland): UD26 – International Universal Design Conference (submission deadline April 8)
2027
September 8-10 in Mechelen (Belgium): AAATE 2027 –
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AAATE Newsletter 2026#1
/2026/01/19/aaate-newsletter-20261/
Mon, 19 Jan 2026 14:23:23 +0000
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The AAATE board addresses you and your loved ones with our best wishes for a great year 2026 full of fruitful exchanges, cooperation and projects enabling people with disabilities. As you know the international situation is extremely worrying, and we’re concerned about its impact on the most vulnerable people, threatened in many areas by the increase of conflicts and violences. As a community committed to supporting people with disabilities, we call for an end to conflicts, respect for human rights to live in peace, and the development of inclusive policies.
The new board, elected at the AAATE 2025 conference in Nicosia, for the period 2026-2027, met in Paris in January. Georgios Kouroupetroglu, who just terminated his mandate as past-president, Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf, our Secretary General and Ralf Klug from the AAATE Office in JKU (Linz) joined this meeting. In general, the board meets in person once or twice a year (depending on conference opportunity), and about once a month online.
We need your input for the European Commission’s public consultation! AAATE is preparing an official response to the European Commission’s public consultation: “Enhancing the strategy for the rights of persons with disabilities up to 2030”. To shape this response, you will be invited to contribute by providing your input via a survey which will be sent to you in the next few days, in order to ensure that AAATE’s voice is robustly representing your expertise.
The Board proposed to work on 3 particularly important topics in the current context, and we need input from members. Three working groups will be set up and will decide the form of their work and the objects they will produce. More information will be sent with separate calls in the next few weeks. In case you are interested in any of the following topics please send an email to work-groups@aaate.net, which will be forwarded to the contact persons.
AI and AT: Annalu Waller and Dominique Archambault
AT policy and policy impact: Pedro Encarnação
AT in humanitarian crises: Tone Øderud
In addition the Think Tank on Ageing and Person-Centred Technology will continue its activities in 2026 with three more meetings (dates to be decided).
As you probably already know, the AAATE 2027 conference will be hosted by Thomas More University of Applied Sciences in Mechelen from September 8 to 10, 2027 (pre-conference days on Sept 6 and 7). We have already started the preparations together with the local host, with the aim of creating a highly engaging event that fosters networking, knowledge exchange, and the development of new collaborations and projects, building on the legacy of our 18 previous conferences. All information will be posted on /, stay tuned!
We will also continue to invite members to share experiences and meet during online short sessions, as we started with the AAATE Aperitivos. The last one took place on Nov 27, 2025 and offered members a relaxed virtual gathering. During these sessions, members could connect with fellow members from across Europe and beyond, share thoughts and outcomes about their work, have the opportunity to discuss, ask for advice and/or find and offer collaboration.
Below, you will find more information about the projects AAATE is involved in, provided by our Secretary General, Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf. AAATE can efficiently take part in projects, as long as they are in line with our constitution, that is contributing to support the development of AT. On the project page of our website you can find the current and past projects involving AAATE, and guidelines for project participation. AAATE can serve in the tasks of dissemination (we run a major conference in Europe but also we have the experience of organising workshops and of communicating results of research about AT) and users involvement (we have members in many countries and a large network of partners). Please think about it when you design your next project application and visit /activities/projects/. Contact Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf via the office email address office@aaate.net.
Below you will find information about upcoming conferences and events related to AT, and especially about our sister conference, the International Conference on Computers Helping People with special needs – ICCHP 2026, in Brno from July 15 to 17 (deadline for scientific contributions is Feb 9).
You will also find the list of recent papers published in Technology and Disability. This is your journal, AAATE members have access to papers content. For this, you need to visit our website , connect with your personnel account, and access the journal via the T&D access page in the Member’s area. We strongly encourage you to consider publishing your AT and accessibility related research in this journal, which has an impact factor. We are continuously looking for reviewers in the AT field. Members who are involved in the research field can contribute to our journal by serving as reviewers. If you are interested, you can contact the office and provide a list of topics that match your expertise, indicating the areas where you’d be able to review manuscripts.
This newsletter is also your newsletter. If you have information useful to share with AAATE members, please send a brief text (with a link if relevant) to office@aaate.net.
AAATE has National Contact Persons in 33 countries (see the list /about-aaate/national-contact-persons/). They are also invited to forward information via this newsletter.
We hope to meet you online and in person during our events and other conferences/opportunities and to work together for the development of Assistive Technologies to enable people with disabilities in Europe and beyond. We will be present at the ATIA 2026 conference in Orlando, (Florida) at the end of January, at the Zero Conference in Vienna in February, and of course at our sister conference: ICCHP 2026 in Brno in July of course, as well as in many other places.
Warmest wishes
Dominique Archambault, AAATE President
With the support of the AAATE team
AAATE board meeting in Paris. From left to right : Lorenzo, Georgios, Ralf, Dominique, Tone, Merita, Evert-Jan, Annalu, Pedro, Silvio
AAATE Team
Board 2026-2027
Dominique Archambault, Université Paris 8-Vincennes-Saint-Denis, France, President
Silvio Marcello Pagliara, University of Cagliari, Italy, President-elect
Pedro Encarnação, Universidade Católica Portuguesa, Portugal, Past-President
Annalu Waller, University of Salford, Manchester, UK, Treasurer
Tone Øderud, SINTEF Digital, Norway, Secretary
Merita Hoxha, Aleksander Xhuvani University, Albania, Project Officer
Lorenzo Desideri, Sigmund Freud University Milano, Italy, External Communication and Information
/about/board
AAATE Staff members
Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf,Secretary General
Ralf Klug, AAATE Office in JKU (Linz)
Contact the team : office@aaate.net
Projects
Currently AAATE is participating in two European (Erasmus+) projects: The AI4HomeCarers () and the Upgrade project (website under development) on inclusive gaming.
In the AI4HomeCarers Project AAATE staff is currently supporting the development of a learning platform on the use of innovative technologies in home care. The release is foreseen for June 2025 after a validation stage with stakeholders.
This year will also see the release of the UPGRADE community platform for those interested in accessibility of videogames and inclusive gaming, as well as gaming as a tool for skills development for participants with disabilities. In the next newsletter we will keep you updated.
The Erasmus+ programme turns out to be an important opportunity for AAATE to realise its mission and to create impact in Europe and beyond. For an overview of the programme and the upcoming deadlines: (KA2 deadline 5 March 2026!)
Please consider including AAATE as a project partner in your proposals.
News from GAATO
The Global Alliance of Assistive Technology Organizations is currently reviewing and updating its 5 years strategy. The new strategy will be available in April 2026.
ICCHP 2026 Conference in Brno
We are happy to highlight our sister conference ICCHP 2026 – the 20th International Conference on Digital Inclusion, Assistive Technology (AT) and Accessible ICT (eAccessibility). ICCHP 2026 will take place at Masaryk University in Brno, Czech Republic, from July 15–17, 2026 (with pre-conference events on July 13–14).
ICCHP has been a key venue for our community to exchange research, practice and policy on technology and disability, and to strengthen collaboration across disciplines and countries. Researchers, practitioners, users and policymakers are warmly invited to submit their contributions and join the discussions in Brno.
Call for Contributions and submission guidelines: /submission-26/
More information on ICCHP 2026:
Please follow ICCHP on LinkedIn to stay updated:
Recently published in Technology and Disability
Technology and Disability, Volume 37, number 4 was published in November 2025. Review Articles
Advancements of prosthetic running blades: An in-depth literature review, by Md Irfanul Haque Siddiqui, Ibrahim A. Alnaser, Mohd. Muddassirul Haque Siddiqui, Khalid Alluhydan and Intesaaf Ashraf
Techniques utilising physiological data for supporting children with dyscalculia: A comprehensive review, by Thi Kieu Chinh Nguyen, Duc Duy Le, Thi Cam Huong Nguyen, Thanh Ha Le and Thi Duyen Ngo
Research Articles
Assistive technology provision at mainstream schools—Experiences of Serbian resource centers by Nenad Glumbić, Mirjana Đorđević, Sanela Slavković, Sharon Borg Schembri, May Agius, Riccardo Magni, Katerina Mavrou, Eleni Theodorou, Maria Mouka, Evert-Jan Hoogerwerf and Lorenzo Desideri
Supporting students with disabilities to transitions to or from postsecondary education: A review of technology-enriched transition programs by Björn Fisseler and Jane Seale
Cue-preserving auralisations for blind exploration of virtual indoor environments by David Poirier-Quinot
Ideas and visions of a new web application for early intervention: Interviews with parents of children with communication difficulties in Sweden, by Sandra Östberg, Gunilla Thunberg and Margret Buchholz
Utilizing VR-BCI for motor function rehabilitation by Ma Thi Chau, Kien Nguyen Minh, Long Vu Thanh, Hoang Anh Nguyen The, Y Huynh Thi Nhu, Loc Dang Huynh, Vu Doan Van Anh, Duy Vo Ngoc and Nghia Hoang Tien Trong
Comparative analysis of fuzzy logic and ANFIS controllers using a novel robotic ankle-foot orthosis, by Gowri Shankar Govindaraj and Arockia Selvakumar Arockia Doss
Book Review
Book Review: Evidence-based assessment framework for assistive technology: The MPT and MATCH-ACES assessments, by Soheila Seyedi
Job Position
Université Laval (Quebec) is recruiting for a Research Chair in Economics, Disability, Social Policy, and Human Development. The position seems very attractive:
Upcoming events
2026
January 29-31 in Orlando (Florida): ATIA 2026 – Conference of the Assistive Technology Industry Association
February 18-20, at the United Nations Office at Vienna (Austria) – ZeroProject Conference with a focus on Accessibility, Information and Communication Technology (ICT), and Crisis Response.
March 9-13 in Anaheim (California) – 41st CSUN Assistive Technology Conference
June 10-12 in Paris: Handicap 2026 (Largest French Speaking conference about AT) (submission deadline Jan 19)
July 15-17 in Brno (Czech Republic): ICCHP 2026 – International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs / (submission deadline Feb 9)
October 21-22 (Zagreb, Croatia): ATAAC 2026 – Conference on advanced technology for children with developmental disabilities and persons with disabilities (submission deadline March 15)
October 25-28 (Porto, Portugal): ASSETS 2026 – 28th International ACM SIGACCESS Conference on Computers and Accessibility
November 4-6 in Galway city (Ireland): UD26 – International Universal Design Conference
2027
September 8-10 in Mechelen (Belgium): AAATE 2027 –
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AAATE Message for the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
/2025/12/03/aaate-message-for-the-international-day-of-persons-with-disabilities/
Wed, 03 Dec 2025 07:40:50 +0000
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On this International Day of Persons with Disabilities, AAATE reaffirms its commitment to advancing inclusive, equitable, and enabling environments through accessibility and assistive technology. These are exciting times: we are witnessing significant developments with the entry into force of the European Accessibility Act and the rapid evolution of artificial intelligence, which is already opening new possibilities for assistive technology and for improving the well-being of persons with disabilities. Yet many challenges remain. A substantial number of people who could benefit from assistive technology still lack access to it, an unmet need that is exacerbated by ongoing conflicts across the globe and persistent under-resourcing, including in high-income countries. And while AI offers remarkable opportunities, it also raises serious concerns: risks of reinforcing stigma through non-representative training datasets, widening digital and economic divides, or compromising autonomy if systems are not designed to preserve agency and control. In this context, the European Union has launched a public consultation on the Strategy for the Rights of Persons with Disabilities towards 2030. AAATE encourages all stakeholders, including professionals, organisations, and especially persons with disabilities themselves, to contribute actively to this important process. Over the past years, we have witnessed a gradual but steady increase in awareness around accessibility and assistive technology. We firmly believe that by involving persons with disabilities in all stages of development, as co-designers and decision-makers, we can continue to make meaningful progress and build more inclusive societies for all.
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Personal Journeys Through Assistive Technology: Eight Leaders Reflect on Four Decades of Change
/2025/10/17/personal-journeys-through-assistive-technology-eight-leaders-reflect-on-four-decades-of-change/
Fri, 17 Oct 2025 19:45:29 +0000
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A paper by eight past and current presidents of the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe (AAATE) offers a unique window into the evolution of assistive technology (AT) through their personal experience spanning over four decades. Rather than presenting a traditional historical account, the authors provide intimate reflections on breakthrough moments that shaped both their careers and the field itself. Paradigm Shifts and Personal Revelations The contributions reveal several fundamental shifts in how the field conceptualizes disability and technology. Renzo Andrich, drawing from his 40+ years in the field, identifies two critical paradigm shifts: the move from working “for” to working “with” persons with disabilities, and the transition from a charity-based “helping” approach to a human rights framework. His 1985 insight came when people with disabilities questioned why professionals received training opportunities while those living with disabilities 24/7 did not – leading to innovative peer-led educational programs. This rights-based perspective appears consistently across contributors. Gerald Craddock emphasizes how his early work at Ireland’s first AT Centre, combined with involvement in the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, reinforced his belief that Universal Design principles must be embedded from the earliest stages of any development process. Technology Evolution and Implementation Challenges Christian Bühler’s account traces the field’s technological journey from the early 1990s TIDE projects, which produced “big, heavy, with limited capacity and expensive” solutions, to today’s AI-powered smartphones that deliver previously impossible capabilities. His experience highlights both the remarkable progress in technical capabilities and the persistent challenges in translating innovation into accessible, practical solutions. The recurring theme of implementation gaps emerges strongly in Luc de Witte’s reflection. His transformative experience in Indian slums – encountering people with severe disabilities who had “clearly never received any support” – shattered assumptions about European progress and highlighted global inequities. The story of Krishna, whose life was transformed by a wheelchair provided by a chance encounter with a Japanese tourist, illustrates both the profound potential of AT and the arbitrary nature of current access systems. Emerging Themes: AI, Accessibility, and Integration Pedro Encarnação’s contribution centers on artificial intelligence’s promise and peril for people with disabilities. He envisions AI-powered assistive technologies that can “observe”, “listen”, and provide contextually appropriate support, but emphasizes that ethical implementation requires meaningful participation from people with disabilities throughout development processes. Klaus Miesenberger explores the “twinning” of assistive technology and accessibility, tracing how legislative measures and technical standards have evolved from architectural accessibility to digital inclusion. His technical perspective reveals how digitization has created unprecedented opportunities for customization and adaptation while highlighting the crucial role of standards and legislation in driving mainstream adoption. Educational and Systemic Change Katerina Mavrou’s educational focus demonstrates how AT perspectives have broadened beyond individual accommodation to encompass digital literacy, social equity, and inclusive curriculum design. Her involvement in the ENTELIS project marked a shift toward understanding AT as both a tool for access and a means of developing digital competencies that address broader social inequalities. The Bologna Declaration: A Call for Collective Action The paper concludes with reference to the Bologna Declaration, launched at the 2019 AAATE conference. This document synthesizes many of the personal insights into a comprehensive action agenda addressing awareness-raising, legislation, research priorities, technological innovation, service provision, education, collaboration, quality assurance, stigma reduction, and barrier removal. Implications for the Field Several key insights emerge from these personal narratives: The Power of Personal Experience: Many contributors’ most significant insights came from direct encounters with people with disabilities, suggesting that meaningful engagement remains central to advancing the field. Persistent Implementation Gaps: Despite remarkable technological advances, access to appropriate AT remains limited globally, indicating that technical solutions alone are insufficient. Rights-Based Evolution: The field has matured from charity-based approaches to rights-based frameworks, though implementation of this perspective remains uneven. Interdisciplinary Integration: Modern AT challenges require collaboration across disciplines, sectors, and geographic boundaries, moving beyond traditional rehabilitation models. User Participation Imperative: All contributors emphasize that meaningful involvement of people with disabilities is essential—not just in testing, but in defining problems, setting priorities, and shaping policies. These personal reflections provide valuable context for understanding how the field of assistive technology has evolved and suggest directions for future development. They remind us that behind technical innovations and policy frameworks are human stories of transformation, challenge, and persistent advocacy for inclusion. For academics and practitioners entering the field, these narratives offer both inspiration and sobering reminders of the work that remains to be done. The authors conclude that AT represents “a field in constant progression influenced by technological, social, demographic, and cultural developments,” while acknowledging that many people worldwide still lack access to appropriate solutions. Their collective call to action challenges readers to consider their own potential contributions to advancing the field’s mission of unlocking human potential through technology. Hoogerwerf et al. (2024): Changing Perspectives on Disability and Technology: Events, Trends and Personal Choices. Available from: .
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AAATE 2025 Conference Report: Innovation and Inclusion in Assistive Technology
/2025/09/28/aaate-2025-conference-report-innovation-and-inclusion-in-assistive-technology/
Sun, 28 Sep 2025 08:17:21 +0000
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18th International Conference of the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in EuropeEuropean University Cyprus, Nicosia, September 10-12, 2025 Introduction The 18th AAATE conference celebrated thirty years of assistive technology advancement, bringing together 350 delegates from 43 countries. The event featured 224 research submissions and comprehensive inclusion forum sessions covering policy, education, and innovation. Under the theme “Technology for Inclusion and Participation for All: Recent Achievements and Future Directions,” the conference addressed rapid developments in artificial intelligence, robotics, and digital health solutions. Rights-Based Approaches to Technology Kamil Goungor from the European Network on Independent Living positioned assistive technology as justice rather than charity, emphasizing independent living as a human right requiring full control over life decisions. His framework outlined twelve pillars including accessibility, transport, and technical aids, using Stephen Hawking’s trajectory to illustrate how appropriate technological support transforms life possibilities. Professor Serenella Besio’s keynote established children’s rights to play, examining how assistive technologies support this fundamental need through toys, tools, and social interactions. Both presentations emphasized that technology development must address the full spectrum of human experiences beyond basic functionality. Artificial Intelligence and Care Ecosystems The conference revealed significant momentum around AI applications in education and care settings. Research from the AI4HomeCare project, in which AAATE is a partner, demonstrated that while stakeholders recognize AI’s potential for workload reduction and safety monitoring, substantial concerns exist regarding human connection preservation, technological reliability, and privacy protection. A critical paradox emerged: successful AI integration depends heavily on human competencies that are often underdeveloped. Multiple presentations emphasized the need for comprehensive training programs addressing both technical skills and critical thinking about appropriate AI use. Discussions consistently emphasized human-centered approaches where AI enhances rather than replaces human capabilities. Results from a large-scale EU project highlighted evolving skill requirements in long-term care sectors, revealing consistent challenges including staff shortages, financial constraints, and digitalization pressures across European countries. Research on informal caregivers showed limited technology adoption beyond basic tools, with digital literacy and financial constraints as primary barriers. Innovation in Mobility and Educational Technology Mobility research demonstrated advances in wheelchair technologies including steering-by-leaning systems and AI-powered navigation assistance, while emphasizing user-centered design and real-world testing. The conference highlighted growing attention to broader mobility ecosystems including infrastructure considerations and policy frameworks. Robotics research covered nursing assistance, rehabilitation support, and educational interventions, consistently emphasizing collaborative rather than replacement models. Educational sessions examined Universal Design for Learning approaches enhanced by AI, revealing gaps between educational institution readiness and urgent practice needs. Research on outcome measurement frameworks reflected growing emphasis on evidence-based practice, with presentations examining user satisfaction assessments, health economic evaluations, and participatory evaluation approaches that prioritize user perspectives over purely technical metrics. Global Perspectives and Sustainability Policy sessions examined assistive technology provision vulnerability during crises, with the “Vulnerability Vs Sustainability” session highlighting tensions between charitable short-term solutions and sustainable infrastructure development. Discussions emphasized moving from donor-driven models to user-driven approaches that prioritize local needs and capabilities. The conference featured significant attention to capacity building in non-high-income countries through diverse projects and initiatives in Serbia, Malawi, and other regions. Research demonstrated successful models for local manufacturing, professional development, and culturally appropriate service delivery. The WHO Global Roadmap for Access to AT featured prominently, with discussions examining how regional AT organizations can contribute to global advancement while addressing local priorities. This multi-level approach reflected growing recognition of complex policy ecosystems required for sustainable development. Another kind of vulnerability was identified by the SEURO project, another project in which AAATE is a partner, that evaluated key factors to prepare organisations, localities and regions across the EU to scale, sustain and transfer people-centred digital integrated health and social care solution for multiple disease management (multimorbidity). Major barriers to its uptake are the fragmented research to market pipelines and lack of scale-up support, which could be helped through sustainable regulatory planning. Conclusions and Future Directions The conference revealed converging themes emphasizing rights-based approaches, human-centered design, and participatory development across all domains. The emphasis on “Nothing Without Us” principles appeared consistently from AI development to policy formation, suggesting maturation toward user-driven rather than technology-driven approaches. Persistent challenges included funding limitations, digital literacy gaps, and professional development needs. However, the conference demonstrated innovative solutions maintaining focus on user rights and social justice principles. The integration of technical innovation with broader questions of social inclusion suggests promising directions for addressing aging populations, healthcare pressures, and digital equity challenges. The AAATE 2025 conference demonstrated both significant progress over thirty years and substantial opportunities ahead. The convergence of technological capability with rights-based frameworks and user-centered design principles positions the field to contribute meaningfully to major social challenges while maintaining focus on fundamental human values and inclusion.
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AAATE 2025 Conference Highlights 30 Years of Assistive Technology Innovation and Advocacy
/2025/09/11/aaate-2025-conference-highlights-30-years-of-assistive-technology-innovation-and-advocacy/
Thu, 11 Sep 2025 04:54:30 +0000
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Nicosia, Cyprus – 10 September 2025 – The 18th AAATE (Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe) Conference kicked off in Nicosia, bringing together 350 delegates from 43 countries to discuss “Technology for Inclusion and Participation for All: Recent Achievements and Future Directions.” Conference Overview Hosted by the European University Cyprus from 10-12 September, the conference marks three decades of AAATE’s commitment to inclusion and accessibility. Conference Chair Katerina Mavrou emphasized the organization’s role as a platform for global stakeholders to collaborate and find practical solutions for people with disabilities. AAATE President Pedro Encarnação noted the significant participation and scientific contributions: 224 submissions to the Research Strand, of which 107 were accepted as full papers, published in the Springer Proceedings, and 78 contributions are featured in the Short Papers Collection volume edited by the European University Cyprus. A special issue of the Technology & Disability Journal commemorating AAATE’s 30-year milestone was published prior to the conference and features nine review papers providing insights into current achievements in assistive technology and future directions. Keynote on Independent Living and Technology Kamil Goungor, Policy and Movement Support Officer for the European Network on Independent Living (ENIL), delivered the keynote address on “The Role of Assistive Technology in the Future of Independent Living.” Kamil outlined the fundamental principle that independent living is a human right, defined as having complete control over one’s life while receiving appropriate support when needed. He highlighted 12 basic pillars of independent living, including accessibility, transport, technical aids, housing, personal assistance, education, income, employment, information, advocacy, and healthcare. ENIL’s expanded framework includes access to supported decision-making, digital technology, legal aid, and transition support services. Kamil talked about the crucial role of AT in his life and addressed both achievements and ongoing barriers. Notable advances include smart devices, AI assistants, improved mobility aids, and enhanced communication tools. However, significant challenges remain, including affordability, accessibility gaps, design processes that lack user input, digital exclusion, and ethical considerations. And while significant progress has been made over the past two decades in making environments more accessible through technology, acceleration of these developments is needed rather than waiting for gradual change. He concluded that the disability community’s call for “Nothing about us without us.” should be rather “Nothing without us.” as everything is also about people with disabilities, they are people as any other. It is important to align all policies with the UN Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities, with an emphasis on support and tools for autonomous decision-making, and recognition that assistive technology represents freedom, dignity, and personal choice rather than merely technological solutions. Scientific track, policy and educational sessions, inclusion and innovation forum This opening session is followed by three days dedicated to exploring all aspects of “Technology for Inclusion and Participation for All” – from a scientific perspective, exploring recent research results and project outcomes, to educational sessions presenting tools and techniques in assistive and accessible technologies, policy sessions inviting exchange of practitioners and policy makers on necessary political support as well as the innovation area that showcases latest advances and creative ideas to solve some of our everyday problems. For all those who want to follow some of the discussions, but cannot be here in person, have a look at @aaate-net.bsky.social and AAATE’s LinkedIn page for live updates. About AAATE AAATE is the Association for the Advancemenet of Assistive Technology in Europe. We envision an inclusive society where assistive and accessible mainstream technologies and universally designed products and services have levelled differences between people in terms of access to opportunities to live the lives they desire. AAATE wants to be an active player and interdisciplinary collaborative platform uniting organisations and individuals that want to collaborate in making that vision come true. More information about AAATE: More information about #AAATE2025: Special Issue: 30 Years of AAATE: Insights into the State of the Art in Assistive Technology,
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Thirty Years of AAATE: Assistive Technology at the Crossroads of Innovation and Inclusion
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A Milestone in Assistive Technology Research and Development 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of AAATE, the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe. It represents three decades of pioneering research, advocacy, and innovation in making technology accessible to people with disabilities across Europe and beyond. Historical Foundations and Evolution AAATE’s origins trace back to 1995 when it was founded in Lisbon, Portugal, emerging from a fertile period of European collaboration in assistive technology. The association built upon the groundwork laid by pivotal initiatives including the COST Action 219 “Future Telecommunications and Teleinformatics Facilities for Disabled People” (1987-1996) and the “Technology Initiative for Disabled and Elderly People” (TIDE) programme (1991-1994) within the European Community. These foundational efforts established more than just scientific cooperation frameworks – they advanced a transformative vision of assistive technology as a fundamental pathway to inclusion, participation, and human rights. Over the past three decades, AAATE has evolved into a dynamic network bringing together researchers, professionals, AT users, and disabled people organisations (DPOs) united by a shared commitment to advancing technology for people with disabilities. User-centred design lies at the core of AAATE’s philosophy, emphasising the importance of actively involving end-users as co-creators in the design, development, and implementation of assistive solutions. This approach has proven instrumental in ensuring that technological innovations truly serve the needs and preferences of their intended users. A Contemporary Examination of Assistive Technology To commemorate this anniversary, the Technology & Disability journal has published a comprehensive special issue featuring nine review articles that collectively examine the current state of assistive technology across diverse domains. These contributions, employing literature review methodologies with an emphasis on scoping reviews, synthesise the evidence base across key areas of contemporary relevance. Mobile Technology Revolution The special issue opens with an examination of mobile phones as assistive technologies, documenting their remarkable evolution from simple communication devices to sophisticated, multifunctional tools that enhance participation for people with disabilities across multiple life domains. This transformation reflects the broader trend of mainstream technologies becoming increasingly accessible and adaptable to diverse user needs. Immersive Technologies and Workplace Integration A significant contribution explores the potential of augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and virtual reality (VR) technologies in supporting individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders in vocational contexts. While revealing promising applications, this review also highlights the underexplored nature of these technologies in workplace settings, suggesting substantial opportunities for future development. End-of-Life Care and Technology Addressing a critically important yet under-recognised area, one review examines the intersection of assistive technology and palliative care. This work underscores the vital role that AT can play in improving quality of life during end-of-life scenarios, revealing a domain ripe for increased attention and development. Inclusive Design for Children The collection includes innovative research on haptic and interactive illustrations for visually impaired children, showcasing design strategies that integrate tactile, auditory, and interactive elements to make books and storytelling accessible. This work exemplifies the creative approaches needed to ensure inclusive access to educational and recreational content. Gaming and Leisure Accessibility A comprehensive scoping review on assistive technologies in commercial video gaming illuminates a growing area of inclusion. The research demonstrates how adaptive equipment can broaden engagement, enrich leisure experiences, and even create employment opportunities for gamers with disabilities, highlighting the expanding scope of AT applications. Pediatric Brain-Computer Interfaces Examining the cognitive demands of brain-computer interface (BCI) use among children, another review identifies attention, processing speed, and motivation as key factors influencing BCI performance. This research emphasises the critical importance of tailoring systems to the developmental needs of pediatric users. The Artificial Intelligence Revolution Perhaps most significantly, artificial intelligence features prominently across multiple contributions, reflecting its transformative impact on the assistive technology landscape. Three dedicated reviews examine different aspects of AI integration: Long-term Care Applications: A systematic review outlines the benefits and ethical challenges posed by AI-driven solutions in long-term care settings, revealing both the promise and complexity of implementing intelligent assistive technologies. Professional Acceptance: Research on the acceptance of AI-infused assistive technologies by social service professionals highlights the critical need for building trust and ensuring successful adoption among those who support vulnerable populations. Orientation and Mobility: A scoping review of AI-enabled orientation and mobility technologies for blind and visually impaired individuals critically examines the current state of the field, emphasizing user trust as central to adoption and sustained use. Paradigm Shifts and Future Directions The nine contributions in this special issue reflect both the bread