Fostering inclusion in early childhood education: A scoping review of wearable technologies for supporting neurodiversity

Abstract

We critically present the findings of a scoping review on wearable technologies for neurodiverse users, and their application in early childhood education (ECE). Research into emerging technologies presents innovative approaches to learning experiences (Chu et al., 2022). Wearable technologies inclusive of smart watches, biosensors for physiological markers, and augmented reality devices show promise in supporting neurodiverse users (Cibrian et al., 2022). Inclusive education for neurodiverse children is crucial, ECE settings must provide personalised support to meet their needs, whilst fostering connection, empowerment, and autonomy. Despite promising findings, there is a real need to recognise and embrace neurodiversity through a neurodiversity-affirming lens, recent discussions have raised ethical concerns surrounding current interventions being inherently ableist (Williams & Gilbert, 2022). This review is approached through a critical disability framework, research has highlighted accessibility issues, advocating for the need to design wearables 'for and with' neurodiverse users (Genaro Motti et al., 2022; Spiel et al., 2022). As a scoping review, this contribution aligns with an interpretive research paradigm. Examining existing research, identifying themes and gaps for alternative research directions for employing wearable technologies to support children through neurodiversity-affirming approaches. This review uses only secondary data but prioritises ethical considerations for a thorough portrayal of sources, addressing biases and ensuring fairness and integrity. We contribute to discussions within the field of innovative technology for didactics, advocating for inclusive practice for more empowering learning outcomes for neurodiverse children. We provide implications for ensuring the meaningful, child-centred implementation of wearable technologies into ECE curricula for neurodiverse children. This research was funded by "SiciliAn MicronanOTecH Research And Innovation CEnter "SAMOTHRACE" (MUR, PNRR-M4C2, ECS_00000022), spoke 3 - Università degli Studi di Palermo "S2-COMMs - Micro and Nanotechnologies for Smart & Sustainable Communities"