Mobile assistive technology and the job fit of blind workers

Abstract

PurposeThis study aims to explore the potential of mobile assistive technology (MAT) as a vocational tool for blind workers (BW). Specifically, it investigates: Can MAT-enabled BW to perform better at the workplace and will insight into MAT-enabled capabilities impact employer perception regarding BW employability.Design/methodology/approachExploratory case study which draws on theories of fit to analyze observational and interview data at an organization familiar with employing, training and referring BW.FindingsMAT can increase blind worker job fit, positively impacting their performance, self-reliance and managerial perceptions regarding their employability.Research limitations/implicationsA conceptual framework is articulated which expands current literature on fit to better account for the assistive potential of mobile technology for differently abled workers.Practical implicationsThe positive impact of MAT on managerial perceptions of BW fit and employability can inform the regimes of employers, job skills trainers, vocational rehabilitation specialists and policy makers.Social implicationsInsights on the use of MAT as a vocational tool can reduce the systemic workplace disenfranchisement of blind people.Originality/valueThis paper presents novel theory which accounts for the impact of MAT on the job fit of differently abled workers.