CHAT@NLN Limerick was a community-focused event that explored how Assistive Technology (AT) supports learning, communication, independence, and everyday life. The event brought together the CHAT community in Limerick to share real experiences, practical demonstrations, and examples of Assistive Technology in action from across Ireland.
National Learning Network hosted the event in partnership with FreedomTech, Enable Ireland, and the Disability Federation of Ireland.
Event Overview
This CHAT event focused on seeing Assistive Technology in real use across classrooms, training centres, universities, workplaces, and community settings. The hybrid format enabled participation both in person and online, reinforcing CHAT’s commitment to inclusive and accessible engagement.
Participants heard directly from AT users, practitioners, educators, and service providers, who shared how different tools and approaches make a meaningful difference in people’s daily lives. The session was interactive, informal, and welcoming, encouraging questions, discussion, and shared learning throughout.
Assistive Technology in Practice
The team at National Learning Network created a warm and relaxed atmosphere, supported by refreshments prepared by students as part of their training programmes. This emphasis on community and inclusion set the tone for the day.
One of NLN’s students, Denika, shared her experience of using the Looky-Book to support learning and communication, offering a powerful example of how personalised Assistive Technology can support confidence, creativity, and progression. Ronan Fox, Senior Digital Officer at NLN, also demonstrated the DAT Wheel, outlining how NLN approaches Assistive Technology as a foundation for learning rather than an add-on.
Ronan highlighted that Assistive Technology at NLN is about barrier removal, not diagnosis supporting access, confidence, and independence for all learners. Tools such as Microsoft 365 accessibility features, immersive reader, dictation, and structured digital environments were discussed alongside more specialist technologies, including driving simulators and creative digital tools. He and the team also set up some of their DAT around the classroom for guests to try out. They also showed the CHAT attendees their MultiBall experience space.
Perspectives from Education, Services, and Lived Experience
Tomás O’Shaughnessy, Assistive Technology Lead at the University of Limerick, delivered an open and informative session on AT in a university context, reflecting on access, disclosure, and the practical realities of supporting students in higher education.
Alanna O’Connor shared insights into Assistive Technology use within ABI services, while Paige Parker from Brother of Charity, alongside Elizabeth McCormack, a DAT Librarian and Assistive Technology user, spoke about access to AT supports and the importance of libraries and shared resources in enabling choice and independence.
The Virtual Services team from Enable Ireland also presented, demonstrating how Assistive Technology supports engagement, communication, and continuity of support beyond physical settings.
Panel Discussion and Demonstrations
The panel discussion, chaired by Anne Marie, brought together Tomás O’Shaughnessy, Sharon Leahy, Emma Smith, and Declan Meenagh. The conversation reflected a strong mix of professional insight and lived experience, focusing on what enables Assistive Technology to genuinely work in real-life settings.
A recurring theme was that Assistive Technology only creates impact when it is understood, supported, and embedded into everyday practice, rather than treated as a specialist add-on.
Tomás O’Shaughnessy reflected on the realities of Assistive Technology in higher education, noting the importance of systems keeping pace with students’ needs:
“Students are often very capable of identifying what works for them, but the challenge is whether the system around them can respond quickly enough and consistently enough.”
Sharon Leahy highlighted the role of staff confidence and organisational culture in determining whether Assistive Technology is used effectively:
“We can have the right tools in place, but if staff don’t feel confident or supported to use them, they won’t be used to their full potential.”
Emma Smith spoke about the importance of continuity and collaboration across services, particularly during transitions:
“Assistive Technology shouldn’t stop and start depending on where someone is. We need better alignment so that supports travel with the person, not the service.”
Declan Meenagh emphasised the value of listening to lived experience and allowing people the space to experiment and adapt their supports:
“People need time to try things, to change their minds, and to decide what actually works for them. That flexibility is key.”
Audience questions further explored how organisations can create safe environments for learning, trial, and reflection both for AT users and for staff. Panel members agreed that Assistive Technology works best when it is grounded in choice, autonomy, and trust, supported by collaboration across education, disability services, and community settings.
A team of DigiCoaches provided live demonstrations of Assistive Technology equipment, offering hands-on opportunities for participants to explore devices and tools in an informal, supportive environment.
Key Outcomes and Reflections
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Strong engagement across education, disability services, academia, and lived experience
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Clear emphasis on Assistive Technology as an enabler of independence and participation
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Practical examples that attendees could take back to their own settings
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New connections and collaborations emerging across organisations
There was notable interest in future CHAT events, including suggestions for themed sessions such as Assistive Technology and Sport. It was particularly encouraging to see new conversations and collaborations beginning both during and after the event.
Looking Ahead
CHAT@NLN Limerick reinforced the value of bringing people together in person and online to share learning, challenges, and practical solutions around Assistive Technology. The event reflected the strength of the CHAT community and its shared commitment to inclusive, person-centred, and accessible approaches to technology.