Presenter

James Northridge, UrAbility Ltd. and University College Cork (Ireland)

Thematic area

Assistive Technology in Education, Inclusive Practices, Parent-Educator Collaboration

Abstract

Looking for a fresh, practical approach to assistive technology that empowers both parents and educators? This session showcases how UrAbility has supported thousands through its structured, CPD-accredited courses and innovative parent membership platform. Learn how aligning training with everyday tools like iPads and Chromebooks has transformed support in homes and classrooms, fostering genuine collaboration and confidence. You’ll also get a first look at the new Assistive Technology Selector App, designed to make choosing the right tech easier than ever. Walk away with proven strategies you can adapt to your own context, whether you’re working in education, support services, or policy.

This session will explore how UrAbility has supported thousands of educators and parents across Ireland and beyond through its structured online learning platform. The model includes a CPD-accredited course suite for teachers (urability.com/education) and a growing parental membership platform (urability.com/parents) offering targeted training, live sessions, and community support.

By improving parental understanding and aligning educator training with mainstream tools like iPads and Chromebooks, UrAbility has created a sustainable model of assistive technology support rooted in Universal Design.

Participants will gain insights into how this approach has directly informed the development of the upcoming Assistive Technology Selector App, a tool designed to streamline technology recommendations through user-driven profiles and guided pathways.

The session will conclude with actionable strategies for replicating this model in other educational or support contexts, particularly within the Irish system.

Target audience

Educators, Special Education Teachers, Assistive Technology Coordinators, Educational Psychologists, Policy Makers

Learning outcomes of the session

At the end of the session, participants will:

1. Have a deeper insight into how scalable, asynchronous online training can support educators in embedding assistive technology effectively.
2. Have a better understanding of how engaging parents through accessible membership models can enhance continuity of support across school and home environments.
3. Have experienced a case study approach to building a successful training and support ecosystem, including lessons learned and practical implementation steps.

Special requirements

None