Ebuenyi, Ikenna D. and Kafumba, Juba and Smith, Emma M. and Jamali-Phiri, Monica Z. and Munthali, Alister and MacLachlan, Malcolm (2023) Empirical research and available data on assistive technology for persons with disabilities in Malawi: A review. Assistive Technology, 35 (1). pp. 94-106. ISSN 1040-0435

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Abstract

Empirical research and data are necessary for policy, planning and provision of services for persons with disabilities. Research data may be available but still not used by researchers and policy makers. The aim of this study is to explore existing empirical research and sources of data on Assistive Technology (AT) in Malawi in order to facilitate the development of an AT policy and Assistive Product List (APL). A two-stage process using a scoping review methodology was adopted to identify (1) empirical research on AT in Malawi and (2) sources of existing data on AT in Malawi. Following a narrative synthesis, 12 heterogenous studies that reported on the use, availability, sources and knowledge about AT in Malawi were identified. Identified studies suggest that there is high unmet need for AT and services in Malawi. Five major sources of data on disability and AT were Identified. Only 2 out of the 12 studies had used existing sources of data. The high unmet need for AT and services in Malawi have substantial implications for persons with disabilities. Developing mechanisms that will improve the use of existing data on AT in all countries is pivotal for the efficient and effective development of AT ecosystems.

Item Type:	Article
Additional Information:	Ikenna D. Ebuenyi, Juba Kafumba, Emma M. Smith, Monica Z. Jamali-Phiri, Alister Munthali & Malcolm MacLachlan (2023) Empirical research and available data on assistive technology for persons with disabilities in Malawi: A review, Assistive Technology, 35:1, 94-106, DOI: 10.1080/10400435.2021.1956641
Keywords:	assistive products; assistive technology services; Malawi; research review;
Academic Unit:	Assisting Living & Learning,ALL institute Faculty of Science and Engineering > Psychology
Item ID:	17140
Identification Number:	https://doi.org/10.1080/10400435.2021.1956641
Depositing User:	Malcolm MacLachlan
Date Deposited:	04 May 2023 09:10
Journal or Publication Title:	Assistive Technology
Publisher:	Taylor & Francis online
Refereed:	Yes
URI:	Publisher
Use Licence:	This item is available under a Creative Commons Attribution Non Commercial Share Alike Licence (CC BY-NC-SA). Details of this licence are available here

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