Tuesday, June 10, 2008

Last but certainly not least...Tutorial 8

Provide a definition of Assistive technology

“Any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition or use an assistive technology device.”

“The science or study of the practical or industrial arts applied science and method, process, etc. For handling a specific technical problem.”

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions.

Techtalk augmentive communication device: holds up to 96 different recording options. Operated by pushing square buttons which speak whatever the user needs, such as “Yes” or “I would like a coffee”.

Made by Advanced Mulitmedia Devices and is battery run. The size dimensions are 30 x 15 cm on the top and 10 cm in depth. Costs approximately $4000 to $5000 each which in the scheme of things is not a high price to pay for communication in my opinion.

How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user?

Allows communication, without high levels of motor control or strength. It is visually stimulating with pictures corresponding to the action wanted. For example a client with a TBI with no speech and limited physical function will be able to communicate independently; this device does not need the other party to know how to use the device or training.



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