Assisstive technology

Definition of assistive technology devices and services

The dictionary provides the following definition of technology
1) The science or study of the practical or industrial arts
2) Applied science
3) A method or process for handling a specific technical problem
(Cook & Hussey, 1995)

According to Cook & Hussey (1995), Assistive technology covers a broad range of devices services, strategies and practices that are conceived and applied to problems faced by individuals who have disabilities.

Another definition from the Technical Assistance to the States Act (cited in Cook & Hussey, 1995) states that assistive technology is any item, piece of equipment or product that increases or improve the functional capabilities of someone with a disability. These devices can be bought commercially or off the shelf, and modified or customized for a given user.

Interactive Whiteboards:

Size:

Front projection whiteboards range in size from around 47" to 104" in diagonal size; with 60-inch and 77-inch being popular sizes. 60" this whiteboard is useful within schools which allows pupils to contribute to their learning. the white boards are available with a wall mount or bracket, desktop stand or floor stand on wheels.

Cost: $600 - $3000

Function:

*
Write over the top of programs to highlight and annotate points (see picture above).
*
View and navigate the Internet from the whiteboard. Surf and display websites which the entire room will be able to see.
*
Students/audience members can approach the whiteboard and add their contribution to the discussion by writing directly on the whiteboard.
*
Present ideas to large audiences.
*
Display movie files or DVD's from the PC
*
Work on word processing documents, spreadsheets, design projectors with your colleagues. Can be connected to video conferencing systems.


Interactive whiteboards

Interactive whiteboard demonstration