Fostering Inclusion: A Regional Initiative Uniting Communities to Co-Design Assistive Technologies

People with disabilities often face discrimination and lack of access in all areas of society. While improving the affordability and appropriateness of assistive technologies can pave the way for easier participation and independence, awareness and acceptance of disability as part of society are inevitable. The presented regional initiative strives to tackle these problems by bringing together people with disabilities, students, researchers, and associations. During different lecture formats at the university, students co-design assistive technologies with people with disabilities. After one year in practice, we reflect on the initiative and its impact on assistive technology development and mitigation of ableism. We conducted and analyzed thirteen semi-structured interviews with participants and other involved stakeholders. Not all co-design projects were finished within the time of a lecture. Participants nevertheless appreciated the co-design approach and steps in the right direction as projects are continued in upcoming semesters. Interviewees highlighted the initiative's importance in raising awareness and broadening knowledge regarding disability and internalized ableist assumptions for those participating. We conclude that collaboration, continuity, and public outreach are most important to work towards tangible assistive technologies, bridging accessibility gaps, and fostering a more inclusive society.