Is technology the answer to improving accessibility?

45329

Total votes

11418

5-11 votes

33911

11-16+ votes

For this VoteTopic, voters celebrated International Day of People with Disabilities (IDPWD), which took place on 3rd December 2023. In the lessons, they considered the ways in which technology can improve accessibility for all, whilst exploring everyday tools found in our homes and communities, as well as future innovations that could improve our lives for the better.

Age 5-11

"Many of us were on the fence about our decision but said no in the end as technology is not always the answer! Some people cannot afford it and therefore it can't be relied upon."

Age 11-16

"If it wasn't for the technology, disabled people wouldn't have access to the things that they need, like wheelchairs and lifts."

Age 16+

"More support can be given in the real world rather than the artificial world. They should build more slopes so that disabled people can find it easier to access the community."

86% pf 5-7-year-ols said they know the ways in which technology can make life easier.

Primary voters aged between 5 & 7 were voting on the question, "Do you know how technology can make life easier for you?"
A significant majority voted 'Yes', with 86% of the vote.

60% of Primary pupils voted 'Yes' to the question, "Is technology the answer to improving accessibility?"

All voters aged above 7 were voting on the question, "Is technology the answer to improving accessibility?"
60% of Primary pupils voted 'Yes', with a similar split in the comments we received.

62% of Secondary, 16+ & College voters said technology is the answer to improving accessibility.

62% of Secondary, 16+ & College voters chose 'Yes' to the question, "Is technology the answer to improving accessibility?"
For a further breakdown, see the results banner towards the end of this page.

Many argued that improved technology is important for improving accessibility but it isn't the whole answer.

Interestingly, the Secondary comments we received largely explained why technology is not the only answer to improving accessibility.
Some young people stressed the importance of making improvements to the physical world alongside the virtual. An example given was using ramps in public spaces.