AMANDA HYNAN FINAL THESIS PDF

interests, self-organisation of activities and supporting others have been interpreted
and expressed within the grounded theory as indicators of a perceived increase for
self-determination due to the internet and online social media supporting the
autonomy and authorship of these activities. As shown in the literature review judging
self-determination is best done by the relevant individuals as it can run the risk of
being democratically undermined, therefore it is important that the participants selfreported
they felt more independence from using the internet and online social media.
Cheatham (2012) carried out a review of quantitative research which sought to
measure the effects of internet use on well-being among adults with physical
disabilities. They identified six studies which matched the inclusion criteria they had
set and noted the small sample size was related to the difficulties of internet
quantitative research design within controlled settings for this population. One study
concentrated specifically on individuals with physical disabilities and found a
significant positive relationship between internet use and perceived independence
(Grimaldi & Goette, 1999, cited by Cheatham, 2012). Abascal and Nicolle (2005)
state if people are digitally excluded then their ability to live a social and independent
life is curtailed. DeRuyter et al. (2007) identified
“access to email, cell phones, digital music stores, e-commerce, digital photo
albums, and e-books are all activities that require digital independence [and]
are fundamental communication activities in the twenty-first century”
(p. 268).
Evidence emerged within the data that the internet could increase the possibility of
pursuing self-directed activities such as employment opportunities and voluntary
charity work. Duckett (2010) discussed the barriers and opportunities for work and
employment within emerging Asian countries (not specified by Duckett) for people
who use AAC and compares this with American and European experiences. He points
out the development of VOCAs that can interconnect with the internet is a real
positive bonus for enhancing employment opportunities. He acknowledges that even
in advanced AAC countries, such as the USA, there are still considerable challenges
within the employment market. He points to opportunities (be they paid or unpaid)
within emerging Asian countries as just beginning for people who use AAC and
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