Technical Description 8

Tutorial Eight: Assistive technology

Provide a definition of Assistive technology (your Cook and Hussey reading may be helpful with this). Assistive Technology is basically a technological way of reducing the limiting functions of disabilities. Cook & Hussey (1999) describe it as 'a broad range of devices, services, strategies, and practices that are conceived and applied to ameliorate the problems faced by individuals who have disabilities'. The only real measure of success when using assistive technology is observation of the functional outcomes, so assistive technology looks at what the individual can do, in any capacity. Public law defines assistive technology as 'any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commericially off the shelf, modified, or customised that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities'. As well as this they state it is 'any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection acquisition or use of an assistive technology device'.

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions. The fibre-optic eye blink switch is a device which allows those with the ability to blink with no other viable means of which to communicate. It detects purposeful eye blinks and can discrimiate between these and random blinks. It attaches to the head with a strap, and a tiny sensor sits in front of the eyelid. It attaches to Fibre-Optic Eye-Blink Power Control Module (PCM-2) and can only be used with this, which is included when the switch is purchased. Dimensions: 1.9cm (3/4") L x 0.6cm (1/4") Diameter. Sensing range: 0.6cm (1/4"). It is appropriate for use with all ages, and is 'designed to foster development in switch use and environmental control' (www.spectronics.co.nz). The fibre-optic eye blink switch is priced at $1201.50, with $133.50 included as gst. The headstrap can also be purchased by itself for $106.88.

How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture. This peice of equipment allows the user to- communicate to have autonomy/right of choice to have some environmental control ability to interact expression of personality For example a child who wishes to do certain things but does not have the means, regarding a young boy who wanted to be dj at a disco. Through the use of switches he was able to practice controlling the music at a disco, and in effect, providing him with an outlet to engage and participate in an activity which he otherwise would not have had the functional ability to do.