Assistive Technology
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
According to the man who originally coined the phrase “Assistive Technology”:
“IT [Information Technology] hardware and software developed to remove information barriers that historically prevented people with disabilities from competing with able-bodied individuals in every facet of life. I also called AT the great equalizer for people with disabilities.”
John M. Williams (Personal Communication).
Video clip of Dr. Kelly Roberts introducing the Assistive Technology Module (1:55).
Other Definitions of AT
The purpose of Assistive technology is “to raise awareness” and “pave the way” for widespread dissemination of technologies believed to hold the promise of “leveling the playing fields” in our schools, homes, work places and communities, for persons with disabilities and their families. (The Tech Act: Technology-Related Assistance Act for Persons with Disabilities, 1988. http://www.ataporg.org/pl108.asp).
Assistive technology, also called “adapted equipment/technology,” is any item, piece of equipment, or system commonly used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of people with disabilities. Examples include adapted eating utensils, picture communication boards, radios with special switch devices, screen readers, wheelchairs, electric van lifts, software programs and communication devices. (Ohio Legal Rights Service, http://olrs.ohio.gov/ASP/olrs_FAQ_AT.asp).
