Navigating innovation: the lived experiences of orientation & mobility specialists using assistive technology and virtual reality

PURPOSE: The purpose of this study was to explore the lived experiences of Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists (COMS) integrating assistive technology (AT) and virtual reality (VR) into their practice. Drawing from broader research on AT adoption, these findings underscore the value of a phenomenological approach in understanding how specialists perceive, adapt to, and navigate the challenges of using AT and VR - ultimately contributing to more accessible and effective mobility instruction. MATERIALS AND METHODS: This study employed Interpretative Phenomenological Analysis (IPA) to examine how Certified Orientation and Mobility Specialists experience the integration of AT and VR in their work. Using purposive and snowball sampling, nine specialists with hands-on experience in AT and VR adoption were recruited, offering diverse perspectives and rich, idiographic insights. Verbatim transcripts and collaborative data immersion ensured authenticity and informed a rigorous thematic analysis aligned with IPA's core principles. Trustworthiness was enhanced through triangulated interviewing, reflexive documentation, member checking, and critical peer review. FINDINGS: In this study four themes emerged (1) Community-based learning and real-world application; (2) Individualised instruction and technology integration; (3) Systems-level influences on learning opportunities; (4) Foundations for lifelong success. CONCLUSION: By examining the lived experiences of O&M specialists, this study provides critical insights that guide the development of intuitive AT and VR tools while informing curriculum and professional training. These findings support more equitable service provision for individuals with visual impairments by promoting inclusive design, policy development, and user empowerment.