Technology is always evolving, especially in the area of assistive technology for people with disabilities. Therefore, this paper aims to analyze trends in technology for people with special needs since the year 2000 through the use of topic modeling. It is important for both professionals and academics to stay updated on the latest research and technological advances in the field of technology for people with speical needs. A bibliometric study was conducted by analyzing journal articles from four large academic databases to identify prevalent topics in the relevant literature over time. Using topic modeling, a total of 41 prevalent topics were identified using a corpus of more than 10,000 scientific journal articles. The results show a steady increase in the number of articles published since 2000, with 13 specific journals playing a significant role in publishin articles related to technology and people with special needs. Topics identified are related closely to the design and evaluation of technological interventions, studiesn on technological interventions in schools, but also on behavior modeling through ICT and technological trends in everyday life. The final paper will contain a full overview of all 41 topics, additional analysis of the development of topic prevalence over time as well as detailed analysis of outstanding topics and topic development using five-year periods as unit of analysis.

Emerging trends in technology are providing opportunities for a broader range of mobile and pervasive assistive technologies (MPAT) to positively impact persons with disabilities in terms of independent living and employment. However, such technologies typically require significant investments by entities that offer such options. It is not clear how such firms compete in a market with other firms that may not provide such options. Understanding such competition can help promote greater investments in accessibility infrastructure by entities and provide insights into how federal efforts can further boost such efforts. To that end, this paper presents a game-theoretic framework of market competition between two firms where one invests in accessibility (bearing additional upfront costs) and compares it with another one that does not. Numerical evaluations demonstrate the range of parametric values where accessibility investments pay off.

Assistive Technology (AT) can improve the quality of life of persons with disabilities by promoting increased independence, social inclusion, and facilitating the ongoing demand for deinstitutionalization. For AT to be effective, it must allow for individualization and adaptation to the user's needs and preferences. Legislation and funding systems have a significant impact on access to AT. In Austria, there is evidence that several barriers prevent people with disabilities from accessing appropriate AT. Therefore, the submitted paper asks which legal frameworks and funding schemes in Austria influence the accessibility, affordability and use of AT, and whether existing legal frameworks and funding schemes in Austria allow for individualization in the provision of AT. A combination of research methods was used to gain a comprehensive understanding of how legal frameworks and subsidy schemes influence access to AT in Austria. The empirical findings show that there is no legal entitlement to AT. So-called benefit catalogues for AT refer primarily to medical rehabilitation measures, are not standardized and do not reflect the state of the art. The financing of AT in Austria is not transparent, some users have to rely on additional donations from private organizations, and often lengthy procedures prevent people with disabilities from immediately using the AT they need.

Nowadays, many people use digital media and software to support them in their everyday lives. Research on digital solutions for individuals with disabilities has led to the development of prototypes like browser add-ons. However, sustaining and disseminating these prototypes beyond project durations pose significant challenges. This paper examines the distribution challenges of a browser add-on developed for individuals with disabilities. The project involved end users throughout the research and development phases, resulting in a tailored prototype. The subsequent follow-up project aims to validate the add-on's effectiveness in different educational contexts. Formal and informal educational settings were explored, identifying diverse target groups. However, challenges emerged, including the evolving use of mobile devices, technical malfunctions, and a lack of digital literacy among end users. The discussion emphasizes continuous software updates, user involvement, and support structures for long-term sustainability. Empowering end users and fostering inclusive training environments are pivotal steps toward overcoming barriers and ensuring the effective use of digital technologies among diverse populations. The paper discusses the challenges and difficulties that have arisen in the dissemination and further development of a software based on the results of for more digital participation on the Internet and presents initial solution ideas and approaches.