THE IMPORTANCE OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY IN EDUCATION AND ITS IMPACT DURING COVID-19 PANDEMIC

One of the challenges contemporary society faces is removing the barriers present in the education system for students with disabilities. For an extended period, this issue has been extensively studied, with one of the most intriguing topics being how assistive technology can enhance students' learning experiences. This article begins with an introduction to the research area by defining key concepts such as disability, assistive technology and inclusivity. It then highlights the importance and necessity of using assistive technology in education and discusses the problems related to online inclusivity encountered during the COVID-19 pandemic. Finally, the article presents conclusions on the use of assistive technology in education, noting both its advantages and disadvantages. The primary advantage is the support it offers students, providing tools that facilitate a deeper understanding of the study materials. However, the disadvantages also require careful consideration, particularly regarding ethical concerns, cybersecurity issues and the potentially high costs associated with ensuring compatibility and support across various devices.