The Intersection of Technology, Accessible Tourism and Tourists With Intellectual Disabilities: Proposing a Novel Conceptual Framework

Abstract

This research aimed to understand the experiences of tourists with intellectual disabilities using travel technologies , and to identify determinants and deterrents. A qualitative approach was adopted to execute the research across two studies. In Study 1, topic modeling analysis of online travel forum discussions was conducted to unearth consumer concerns around accessibility. Study 1 revealed that the voices of people with disabilities were omitted in the forum data. Building upon Study 1, in Study 2 we conducted four focus group interviews with tourists with intellectual disabilities to understand their opinions, attitudes, and perceptions towards the use of technology before and during travel. The findings yielded a redefined model conceptualizing the technology usage of tourists with disabilities, particularly for tourists with intellectual disabilities. Implications for co-creating experiences with technology with tourists with disabilities were discussed in relevance with theory and practice.