Context-Appropriate Technology

Technology, particularly assistive technology, that is designed or selected to fit the specific social, economic, cultural, and environmental context in which it will be used. Context-appropriate technology considers factors such as local infrastructure, available materials, repair capabilities, cultural acceptability, and affordability. In the Global South, where resources and support services may be limited, providing context-appropriate AT is critical — inappropriate or poor-quality devices can reinforce disability stigma rather than reduce it, and may be abandoned if they do not meet real-world conditions of use.