8 Module 2: Introduction

Recognizing technoableism in current technology involves understanding the subtle and overt ways in which technology can perpetuate ableist biases. This recognition is crucial for developing and advocating for more inclusive technologies. Ableist biases can manifest in numerous forms, from the physical design of devices to the software interfaces and the underlying algorithms that power many modern applications. These biases often stem from a narrow view of the “average” user, which fails to account for the diverse range of abilities and needs present in the population.

Subtle Forms of Technoableism: Subtle technoableism can be seen in the lack of customizable features in software applications, where the default settings might not be suitable for users with visual, auditory, or cognitive impairments. For example, text that cannot be resized, color schemes that lack sufficient contrast, or interfaces that require complex navigation can all present barriers to accessibility. Additionally, voice-activated systems that do not recognize diverse speech patterns, accents, or speech impairments further illustrate how subtle biases can exclude users.

Overt Forms of Technoableism: Overt technoableism is often more apparent and includes examples such as physical hardware that is not designed for ease of use by individuals with disabilities. Examples include touchscreens without tactile feedback, wearable technology that does not account for different body types, or public kiosks that are placed at heights inaccessible to wheelchair users. These overt forms are easier to identify but still require concerted effort to address.