Assistive Technology Essay - 1440 Words

As we live in the information age, our present society places technology on a high pedestal. This pedestal contains all of the hi-tech, yet sophisticated gadgets, gizmos, and all of the other novel items that are inundating our households. Items such as computers and cell phones enable us to communicate via e-mail, text message, and video (Stodden, Roberts, Picklesimer, Jackson Chang, 2006). Innovative items may be taken for granted but if we understand their significance and how they help us live in a technology driven and dependent world then we are better able to appreciate their value (Lahm, et al., 1996). We may not know it and may not have an underlying disability but we are utilizing basic technology (e.g. phones, calculators)†¦show more content†¦Through examination of research, readers will gain an awareness of AT as well as its implications for individuals with disabilities. It’s critical to understand that although AT helps people perform everyday tasks , each individual has unique needs. These needs are contingent on their disability and what works for one individual may not work for another (Hetzroni Shrieber, 2004). In that case, there is no easy answer when it comes to AT. AT does have its flaws and unfortunately will never reach perfection (Borg, Larrsen, Ostergren, 2011). As a democratic society we can closely examine the problems that plague AT and hopefully formulate a solution that will meet the needs of everyone. Moreover, in order to meet individual needs it’s vital that we explore research that’s focused on the use and types of AT (Alper et al., 2006). Understanding the use and types of AT will provide us with knowledge on how AT helps facilitate individuals to perform activities in the eminent realm of technology (Borg et al., 2011). Types of Assistive Technology AT products are designed for individuals that are affected by certain disabilities whether physical or cognitive. These products should be compatible and tailored to meet individual specific needs (â€Å"Types,† n.d.). Importantly, they promote an individuals ability to travel, interact, and communicate with others while acting asShow MoreRelatedAssistive Technology1683 Words   |  7 Pages| Assistive Technology Evaluation | EDU 620 Meeting Individual StudentNeeds With Technology Instructor: Deborah Naughton | | Rhonda Reed | 11/20/2013 | | Assistive Technology Evaluation Assistive technology evaluation must be in an initial or three year reevaluation. 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This form of technology comes in many forms, ranging from low to high technology devices. These devices, some as simple as a highlighter, help to organize and keep on track the individual with a learning disability. Assistive technology has many benefits to a student and helps individuals to compensate inRead MoreAssistive Technology Solutions For Students With Learning Disabilities769 Words   |  4 PagesAssistive Technology Solutions Technological advances have increased access to the curriculum for students with learning disabilities. Assistive technology are the devices and services used to maintain or improve the capabilities of a student with a disability (Dell, Newton, Petroff, 2011). Through these technologies, students with learning disabilities are able to complete tasks in the classroom that they were otherwise, unable to achieve. Prior to the availability of assistive technology, aRead MoreShould Assistive Technology Be Disabled Students With Disabilities Education Act ( Idea )812 Words   |  4 PagesDisabilities Education Act (IDEA) 1997 and IDEA 2004 provided disabled students with options for assistive technology in the classroom as well as assistive technology services. It is through these mandates that Individual Educational Plans (IEP) began to include assistive technology options. The IDEA 2004 â€Å"law mandates that assistive technology devices and services be provided to students with disa bilities if the technology is essential for accessing education-related resources. (Dell, Newton, Petroff, 2012Read More Assistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities Essay1863 Words   |  8 PagesAssistive Technology for Individuals with Disabilities Assistive technology plays an important role in the learning process for individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology is defined as any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. (Maushak, Kelley Blodgett, 2001, p. 419) Assistive technology is very beneficialRead MoreTechnology : Assistive Technology1655 Words   |  7 Pageswould need crutches. Crutches are an important piece of technology know as assistive technology. The spectrum is extremely broad for assistive technology, and has been changing dramatically since the 1900s. It can range all the way from crutches, to a software device that can read where your eyes are looking to improve communication. Assistive technology is a broad term for any assistive, adaptive, or rehabilitative device. Assistive technology is defined as any item, piece of equipment, or product