Explore publications.

The phenomenon of 'massification in higher education ', which refers to the significant increase in the number of students enrolling in universities, has made it difficult for inclusive education to be attainable owing to unknown reasons that are encumbering the students living with disability from having a sense of belonging. Hence, this study aims to evaluate the relationship between students living with disability and social justice through inclusivity in higher education with the aid of Assistive Technology (AT) to conceptualise a framework. The researchers employed a mixed methods approach to collect and analyse data statistically and descriptively. The requirements for integrating the model to ease the lack of consideration of students living with disability in the digital age were evaluated and critically reviewed regarding its impact on students’ sense of belonging in the digital age. The major findings from this study elucidate the factors perceived as the central requirements for mitigating the lack of inclusivity and social justice in higher education. The procurement of ATs was topical as most respondents (83%) categorically opined the need to improve this process by making timely purchases of the proper ATs from reliable service providers.  The successful implementation of this framework could significantly enhance the educational experience of students with disabilities at the University of Venda, making it a more inclusive and supportive learning environment. The findings on the appropriateness of ATs for students overwhelmingly indicated that many of the available devices and technologies meant to assist learners were not fit for the tasks they were intended for. The university should establish a procurement committee and a high-level action plan outlining the requirements for delivering assistive products & services.

The sociotechnical challenges primarily faced by students with disabilities are significantly hindering their active participation in academic programs. This study, therefore, holds immense importance as it aims to examine these challenges and evaluate the factors influencing the introduction of Assistive Technology in response to these issues. The researchers have used a to delve deep into these challenges and establish potential mitigation strategies for fostering inclusive education and a supportive learning environment. This study uses quantitative and qualitative data to understand factors influencing the integration of ATs in inclusive education. As a result, the study's findings, particularly the absence of a framework in the university disability unit, which is responsible for guiding the use and integration of AT, are crucial for understanding the current state of affairs. The delays in acquiring and delivering ATs result in students missing out on learning how to use the technologies. The use of ATs in the university was affected by the lack of training of lecturers who taught the students living with disabilities. Although there are ATs in the disability unit, they seem to be used by students who need urgent support and who need it in a limited time. Due to these factors, the study concluded that several factors influenced the integration of ATs in inclusive education at the university, and these need to be addressed urgently. This paper recommends that training should be conducted with lecturers and students to use ATs for learning and teaching purposes.