Design and pilot evaluation of a collaborative platform for the inclusive integration of ICT in Morocco

Abstract

ICT-related needs in inclusive education are often reported informally, with limited traceability and weak stakeholder coordination. This study designs and evaluates a socio-technical platform to structure requests, match needs to solutions, and support shared decisions. We developed a collaborative platform combining a request workflow (submission–processing–validation–feedback) and an evolving ICT tools repository based on USAID guidance. An exploratory pilot was conducted with institutional authorization in a primary school within AREF Casablanca-Settat, followed by semi-structured interviews with five purposively selected participants (school principal, teacher, student with low vision, teacher-trainer, and NGO representative) under ethical safeguards. Participants reported clear processes, better role-based coordination, and easier identification of suitable ICT solutions. Main limitations were the indirect nature of the usage assessment and constraints in time and availability. The platform is feasible and promising for strengthening ICT governance for inclusion through traceable, coordinated interventions. Future studies should test it in real classrooms and measure usage and pedagogical impact.