Since the introduction of virtual environments in the 70s, technologies have moved through virtual reality, mixed reality, and augmented reality into extended reality (XR). This development is promising for various groups. Previous research has shown people with disability benefiting from using technology in social and professional settings. Technology has offered people with disability the opportunity to communicate, interact, participate, and build new relationships. However, we do not know what impact XR has or will have and whether it will offer new opportunities for people with disability. This paper aims to indicate potential opportunities and challenges afforded by XR to people with disability. We offer reflections on the opportunities as well as the ethical considerations needed when introducing immersive technologies to a marginalized group.
Keywords: challenges; development; disability; ethical; extended reality; practical; reality; research; technology; virtual; virtual reality; virtual worlds.
©Karen Stendal, Rosemarie D L C Bernabe. Originally published in the Journal of Medical Internet Research (https://www.jmir.org), 13.02.2024.