2. Inquire

Generate new evidence & insights.

We answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies, addressing intersectional challenges and research and evidence gaps.

Led by GDI Hub at University College London, with academic and community partners globally, this cluster will answer critical research questions and develop foundational methodologies to support the evidence base for best practices in assistive technology provision in low- and middle-income countries. 

Sub-Programmes

  • Data and Evidence Portal: Our Data and Evidence portal combines research from the Rapid Assessments of Assistive Technology and various global studies. The portal aims to improve access to life-changing assistive technology for all.
  • What Works: The What Works project focuses on research related to the AT2030 programme, aiming to answer specific questions and gather insights.
  • Mobile & Emerging Technology: Mobile and emerging technologies are enhancing assistive devices with features like text-to-speech and eye-gaze control, improving accessibility. However, questions persist about the effectiveness of mobile devices as assistive technology.
  • Fellowship Programme: Our Fellowships programme will accelerate emerging talent, helping to answer key research questions.

Latest

  • Dot Glasses Field Trial Template Pack

    Dot Glasses
    July 8, 2026
    Kenya
    AT2030 Resources

    Dot Glasses Field Trial Template Pack

  • A Critical Review of Sexuality, Technology and Disability

    Patel Dilisha, Ekat Osipova, Dr Giulia Barbareschi, Katta Spiel
    July 8, 2026
    Global
    Academic Research Publications

    The investigation of technologies facilitating sexual interactions and sexuality-related explorations is becoming more established in Human-Computer Interaction (HCI), albeit with little systematic attention to the sexual lives of disabled people. In this space, we undertook a literature review utilising feminist content analysis to take stock and critically analyse the domains of sexuality, technology and disability when they intersect. Our approach aligns with the broader goals of promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity in technology design and application. We present a descriptive and analytical outline of existing research on sexuality, technology and disability through which we identified unmarked norms governing research.

  • Seeing Clearly: The Impact of Affordable Eyeglasses on Daily Life in Kenya

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Dot Glasses, Senses Hub
    July 8, 2026
    Kenya
    Case Studies and Reports

    The report draws on survey, questionnaire, and interview data from people who received eyeglasses through the trial. Participants reported meaningful improvements in daily activities such as reading, phone use, schoolwork, and mobility, alongside increased independence and confidence. Experiences were not uniform: some participants reported discomfort or more modest benefits, and a small minority reported no improvement or reduced independence

  • Advance 2026 group photo Cover Image

    Advance Cohort of 2026

    Global Disability Innovation Hub
    July 7, 2026
    United Kingdom
    Case Studies and Reports

    Advance 2026 is an annual global innovation accelerator led by the Royal Academy of Engineering.  This year, in partnership with the Global Disability Innovation Hub’s UK International Development-funded AT2030 programme, the accelerator is addressing accessibility and assistive and inclusive technologies as founders tackle real-world challenges across healthcare, education, manufacturing and sustainability.

  • Simplified Refraction Eyewear for Low Resource Settings Field Trial Toolkit - DOT Glasses

    Global Disability Innovation Hub, Dot Glasses, Senses Hub
    June 25, 2026
    Kenya
    Case Studies and Reports

    This toolkit is a practical guide for delivering simplified refraction eyewear in low-resource settings. It draws on a field trial conducted across seven community sites in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties from June to August 2025. It is designed to help teams: • deliver vision camps safely and efficiently • maintain protocol and data quality • generate evidence that supports real decisions about scale. This toolkit focuses on how to deliver. It covers field operations, ethics and safeguarding, monitoring, and partner roles, based on what worked in practice.