A Systematic Review of Technology-Delivered Disability Training and Support for Service Providers: Implications for Rural and Remote Communities

Technology is a possible solution to increase the accessibility of disability training and support for service providers in rural and remote areas. We conducted a systematic review across five databases using terms related to technology, training and support, and autism and developmental disability. The search identified 1626 articles and ten satisfied all inclusion criteria. All studies reported positive outcomes and three studies found no significant differences between face-to-face and online modes of delivery. Limitations of the studies included small sample sizes, lack of control groups and infrequent use of randomisation. Therefore, whilst the use of online technology shows promise as an effective solution for rural and remote communities, there is currently weak evidence to support its use.