Tutorial Eight: Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is described as technology that is used to assist people in completing tasks with less effort and increasing the independance of an individual. Also with the new technologies being introduced in the workplace, more people with disabilites are able to have a job that they greatly deserve (De Jonge, Joslyn & Redger 2007).
So assistive  technology is technology that can be used to compensate or assisit someone who may have a disability. For example hearing aids are used for people who have hearing loss.

The assistive technology i though was the coolest was the interactive SMART boards
These SMART boards range in sizes and functions and are available all over the world. They can be used for educational, business and even government purposes. Link to the SMART board website here

Average size:

• 165.7 cm × 125.7 cm  (can be larger or smaller)

Some Functions Include:

• Hands on learning and interaction
• Able to use google maps
• Transfer file from your desktop straight onto the board
• Interactive games

Average Price:

• Around $1200 NZ dollars

This equipment can increase occupational capacity as it is controled by touch. This may aid people who have difficulty holding a pen to write on the white board , possibly from rheumatoid arthritis. Also it is used fo educational purposes in schools so can be a fun way to educate people. Interactive games can be used to increase general physical activity and co-ordination. Also it reiterates the occupational concept of play and how it can be meaningful to others.

Here is a YouTube clip which gives a demonstration on how you can use the SMART Board and its capabilities.

This video clip off YouTube is a really good explanation of how a SMART Board works and tips on how to work it.





This clip is of a demonstration on how to work a SMART Board. This video clip is purposely made to teach people how to use the it so is clearly instructed.

Reference:

De Jonge, D., Joslyn, M., & Rodger, S. (2007). Assistive technology in the workplace. USA: Mosby Elsevler