Adaptive (or Assistive) Technologies

What are "adaptive technologies"?

"Adaptive technology describes the use of hardware and software to assist individuals who have difficulty accessing information systems using conventional methods. For example, mini keyboards can be used by people with a small range of hand movement, and screen readers can be used by people who are blind."
section508.nasa.gov/glossary.htm

What are "assistive technologies"?

"As defined by the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, the term refers to "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities." Assistive technologies include: screen readers and magnifiers, closed captioning, alternative keyboards, and other special software and equipment that makes information devices more accessible. Also referred to as "Adaptive Technology." "
www.cde.state.co.us/utility/accdict.htm

Resources

Adaptive Technology Resource Centre: http://www.utoronto.ca/atrc/

Adaptive Computer Products (links): http://www.makoa.org/computers.htm

Assistive Technology Industry Association: http://www.atia.org/

Assistive Technology Training Online: http://atto.buffalo.edu/

Illinois Assistive Technology Project: http://www.iltech.org/

Family Guide to Assistive Technology: http://www.pluk.org/AT1.html

List of educational assistive technologies: http://www.abledata.com/abledata.cfm?
pageid=19327&top=11436&deep=2&trail=22

Assignment

The class will investigate and report on the contents of the Adaptive Technology Kit developed by National College of Education, and will create the beginnings of an "Adaptive Technology Kit User's Manual" by writing up the contents including:

1. Brief description of each item in the kit, including a list of what is included, the manufacturer (and contact info including a web site), price, and additional options available for that item.

2. The special needs that could potentially be served by each item, with attention to options or modifications necessary for each use.

3. An example of an educational use of the item

4. Remaining questions about the item.

The class as a whole will discuss how best to structure this activity. We have until 5:55 pm for this activity.

Any documents produced during this assignment should be uploaded the the "Adaptive Technologies" folder in the Files section of the course web site at http://my.nl.edu.