Can technology deliver on the promise of inclusive education? Evidence suggests caution

A new study has revealed both transformative benefits and entrenched challenges associated with the integration of technology into inclusive education. Published in Education Sciences (2025) under the title “Technologies in Inclusive Education: Solution or Challenge? A Systematic Review,” the research examines 93 studies from 2019 to 2024 to evaluate whether technological adoption enhances or hinders educational inclusion.

Using PRISMA methodology, the researchers categorize the most widely used technologies, assess their reported benefits, and identify persistent barriers that shape their implementation in classrooms serving students with functional diversity.

What technologies are being used to promote inclusion?

The review finds that a wide range of technologies are actively shaping inclusive educational environments across the globe. Assistive technologies such as screen readers, braille displays, tactile systems, and voice-to-text tools provide critical access to curriculum for students with visual, auditory, or mobility impairments. Smart devices and robots, including tutor robots like QTrobot and Cozmo, digital assistants such as Siri and Alexa, and smart tablets and smartphones, are widely used for adaptive learning and classroom engagement.

Virtual and augmented reality technologies like Google Expeditions, Minecraft Education Edition, and Cospaces offer immersive environments that enhance student participation and interactivity. Learning management and collaboration platforms such as Moodle, Google Classroom, Kahoot, Nearpod, and video conferencing tools like Zoom and Microsoft Teams support differentiated instruction and assessment. Artificial intelligence tools like ChatGPT and Grammarly assist with writing and personalized learning pathways, while big data analytics contribute to predictive learning insights and adaptive education strategies.

The most active research countries include Russia, the U.S., Spain, and the U.K., with a concentration of studies published between 2021 and 2023, reflecting a sharp rise in global interest in inclusive technologies post-pandemic.

What are the documented benefits for students?

The integration of digital tools into inclusive learning environments has demonstrated numerous benefits, particularly in fostering accessibility, personalization, and student empowerment. Accessibility and participation improved significantly due to compensatory tools and multisensory content, enabling students with diverse needs to engage in learning on equitable terms.

Academic and cognitive gains were observed, including better performance in attention, memory, reading, and problem-solving. Educational technologies helped develop critical thinking, creativity, and emotional intelligence. Personalization emerged as a core strength, with adaptive systems allowing for customized pacing and learning materials aligned with each student’s abilities and interests.

Motivation and retention increased due to gamified and interactive environments, which enhanced engagement and reduced dropout rates. Social and emotional inclusion was fostered through tools that improved communication, peer interaction, and collaboration between students and instructors.

These tools not only enriched the educational experience but also contributed to higher self-esteem, greater competitiveness in the job market, and broader social inclusion, according to the reviewed studies.

What are the key challenges hindering implementation?

Despite their potential, several systemic barriers prevent the full realization of technology’s promise in inclusive education. A lack of teacher training is one of the most significant hurdles, as many educators are unprepared to use assistive and digital technologies effectively. There is a widespread gap in professional development and a lack of incentives for upskilling teachers in inclusive ICT use. High financial costs also limit implementation, as the acquisition of advanced technological equipment remains out of reach for many schools, especially in underserved regions. Limited access to digital infrastructure and devices further exacerbates inequality.

Infrastructure and resource gaps persist across many educational institutions, particularly in low-income countries, where the technological backbone needed to support inclusive technologies is absent. Social inequalities also play a role, with marginalized students disproportionately affected by limited access to tools and digital learning environments, thereby widening the existing equity gap. Ethical and privacy issues are mounting, particularly with tools that track or adapt to student behavior, raising concerns about data security and the ethical use of AI in classrooms. Furthermore, there is the issue of over-reliance on digital tools. While technologies offer support, excessive dependence can exclude students who struggle with screen-based environments or require human interaction to thrive.

The review also points out that while advanced technologies like virtual reality and AI assistants offer powerful learning experiences, their impact is diluted in settings where basic digital resources are unavailable. Therefore, low-cost, scalable solutions such as mobile learning apps and simulations are more viable in many parts of the world.