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Monday, June 7, 2010
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Tutorial Seven: Assistive Technology
Definition of Assistive Technology
Assistive technology (AT) is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities and includes the process used in selecting, locating, and using them (Wikipedia. 2010).
Assistive technology allows people with disabilities to perform tasks that they may not have been able to perform in the past. Increasingly manufacturers are designing products consider people with disabilities.
Assistive Equipment
The Personal Computer (PC) is a piece of adaptive technology that has many useful functions for people with disabilities. The PC can run literacy software for the cognitively impaired, or illiterate. Online programs can provide opportunities to socialise and work. Along with software the hardware has many choices of interface for people who may have difficulty with a standard mouse and keyboard. Some adaptive equipment;
Wii as a Rehabilitation Tool
Assistive technology (AT) is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people with disabilities and includes the process used in selecting, locating, and using them (Wikipedia. 2010).
Assistive technology allows people with disabilities to perform tasks that they may not have been able to perform in the past. Increasingly manufacturers are designing products consider people with disabilities.
Assistive Equipment
The Personal Computer (PC) is a piece of adaptive technology that has many useful functions for people with disabilities. The PC can run literacy software for the cognitively impaired, or illiterate. Online programs can provide opportunities to socialise and work. Along with software the hardware has many choices of interface for people who may have difficulty with a standard mouse and keyboard. Some adaptive equipment;
SiPuff Voice Control USB Headset (requires switches)$49.95) SiPuff USB Gaming Headset for PS2/PS3/Wii (requires switches) $49.95 | |
| Light Touch 2g Switch $59.95 Fist/Foot/Wheelchair Bump Switch $39.95 Bite Switch $99.95 Remote Control Switch $119.95 Wireless Button $119.95 Wireless Ability Switch Package $249.95 | |
| Roughneck Quad Pushbutton Switches $229.95 Light Touch $199.95 Large 5 Switch Joystick $149.95 Medium 5 Switch Joystick $149.95 Small 5 Switch Joystick $149.95 Wireless X10 Button & 5 Switch Digital Joystick    |
Dual Bite Switches retrieved June 5, 2010 from http://www.broadenedhorizons.com/switches.htm
With increasing awareness of the needs of people with limited function companies such as Apple have created PC's with some standard features for people with limited functions. Apples IMac has a commitment to accessibility for people with disabilities they have a number of standard features in their major products. The features are included at know extra cost "For example, iPhone, iPod, and Mac OS X include screen magnification and VoiceOver, a screen-access technology, for the blind and visually impaired. To assist those with cognitive and learning disabilities, every Mac includes an alternative, simplified user interface that rewards exploration and learning. And, for those who find it difficult to use a mouse, every Mac computer includes Mouse Keys, Slow Keys, and Sticky Keys that adapt the computer to the user’s needs and capabilities (June 5, 2010 retrieved from: http://www.apple.com/accessibility/)"
The cost of the Apple IMac can be $1200 to $2400 depending on the features you require.
Apple also have a dedicated website where disability users can access assistive technology for apple and mac users called www.atmac.org/. Their website features adaptive technology they have designed to interface with their standard products, and uses for their standard.
Wii as a Rehabilitation Tool
Another company making huge leaps in the area of adaptive technology for people with disabilities in Nintendo Wii. There is a recognition that the Wii sport can help with physiotherapy and rehabilitation. The following websitewww.my-wiihabilitation.co.uk. The Wii is being used to increase dexterity, co-ordination, balance, memory and muscle strength.
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