"So What" ... Can Technology Do to Remove Barriers

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More than one billion people worldwide are disabled, yet many continue to face barriers to education, employment and everyday life. In this video, Professor Tim Coughlan from The Open University and Professor Annalu Waller OBE from the University of Salford explore how assistive technologies and artificial intelligence are transforming opportunities for disabled people. From AI-powered Digital Access Advisors that help students identify the support they need, to innovative tools helping colleges make learning more inclusive, discover how researchers are working with disabled people, educators and technology developers to create more accessible futures. The video also introduces the new UK Assistive and Accessible Technology Network (ATech), a £1 million initiative bringing together researchers, technology companies and assistive technology users to accelerate innovation and ensure disabled people are at the heart of technology design. Technology alone cannot remove barriers. But when designed inclusively, it can empower people, improve educational outcomes and help build a more equitable society for everyone. Featuring: Professor Tim Coughlan, The Open University Professor Annalu Waller OBE, University of Salford Chapters: 00:00 Breaking down barriers for disabled people 00:26 What are assistive technologies? 00:59 Making learning more accessible 01:20 AI-powered support for students 01:52 Creating more inclusive education 02:35 The new ATech Network 03

Published 2026-09-11 · Watch on YouTube ↗
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