Innovative and Handcrafted Low-Tech Assistive Tools: The Experiences of Kindergarten Educators and Their Role in Early Childhood Development
Journal
Multidisciplinarni pristupi u edukaciji i rehabilitaciji
Date Issued
2025-11-02
Author(s)
Jakovchevska, Aleksandra
DOI
https://doi.org/10.59519/mper7204
Abstract
This study aims to explore how kindergarten educators
manually develop and use low-tech assistive technology
(AT). Low-tech AT refers to simple, inexpensive devices
designed to help children who have certain developmental
disabilities. The research uses a combined approach of
quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Through
surveys of educators we collected quantitative data related
to hand-designed ATs, while interviews provided
qualitative insights into the motivations, challenges and
experiences of teachers with these tools, we also analyzed
the content of hand-created low-tech ATs through a
checklist.
The results show that handmade low-tech ATs
significantly impact and benefit children's engagement,
development and progress, especially in communication
and motor skills. Educators also emphasized the
importance of applying these tools in the early intervention
process, noting improvements in more developmental
aspects of children. The discussion highlights the need for
additional resources and training to help educators create
and implement effective AT devices, as well as the role of
creativity in emphasizing the individual needs of students.
manually develop and use low-tech assistive technology
(AT). Low-tech AT refers to simple, inexpensive devices
designed to help children who have certain developmental
disabilities. The research uses a combined approach of
quantitative and qualitative research techniques. Through
surveys of educators we collected quantitative data related
to hand-designed ATs, while interviews provided
qualitative insights into the motivations, challenges and
experiences of teachers with these tools, we also analyzed
the content of hand-created low-tech ATs through a
checklist.
The results show that handmade low-tech ATs
significantly impact and benefit children's engagement,
development and progress, especially in communication
and motor skills. Educators also emphasized the
importance of applying these tools in the early intervention
process, noting improvements in more developmental
aspects of children. The discussion highlights the need for
additional resources and training to help educators create
and implement effective AT devices, as well as the role of
creativity in emphasizing the individual needs of students.
Subjects
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