Tutorial Eight: Assistive technology

Provide a definition of Assistive technology (your Cook and Hussey reading may be helpful with this). Assistive technology is a broad range of devices , services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied ti assist problem an individual would have with learning a skill. This is particularly concerning people with disabilities.

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions. I looked at the FlexAble switch that was a long pole type device(about 48cm long) that can be moved in any direction. This can be used to switch on or switch off an appliance. This can be moved in any direction round 360 degrees. The idea being that the person can hit out at the switch as they do not need full directional control to access the switch. The cost is $245 plus gst $30.36. This is available through Spectronic web site. www.spectronics.co.nz

How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture. This allows the user a full range of movement to access a switch If they have no control over directional movement they can hit out and still access the switch which is then attached to their teaching device.