Co-Design of Technology with and for People with Intellectual Disabilities: A Scoping Review of Methods and Inclusion Strategies

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Authors: Jacqueline Johnstone, Madhuka Nadeeshani, Preity Pai, Troy McGee, Kirsten Ellis, Swamy Ananthanarayan
Cited by: 1
References: 95

Abstract

People with Intellectual Disabilities (ID) remain underrepresented in the co-design of technology, despite a growing emphasis on inclusive design within HCI. This scoping review synthesises knowledge on co-design methods by examining how people with ID and their support networks have been involved in technology design. A systematic search of four databases identified 25 relevant papers. Our analysis draws together the design methods and inclusion strategies used across these studies, highlighting practices, tools, and adaptations that accommodated diverse abilities, built trust, and supported agency. From this synthesis, we articulate how co-design practices have been tailored to promote inclusivity and propose principles and approaches to guide future research that centres ID perspectives. These findings provide researchers, designers, and practitioners with insights for fostering the equitable participation of people with ID in the design of technology.

Fields of Study & Subjects

Innovative Human-Technology Interaction Technology Use by Older Adults Assistive Technology in Communication and Mobility

Publication details

Journal / source
Proceedings of the 2026 CHI Conference on Human Factors in Computing Systems
Publisher
ACM
Pages
1–20
Publication date
13 April 2026