Assistive Technology

As we live in the information age, our present society places technology on a high pedestal. This pedestal contains all of the hi-tech, yet sophisticated gadgets, gizmos, and all of the other novel items that are inundating our households. Items such as computers and cell phones enable us to communicate via e-mail, text message, and video (Stodden, Roberts, Picklesimer, Jackson & Chang, 2006). Innovative items may be taken for granted but if we understand their significance and how they help us live in a technology driven and dependent world then we are better able to appreciate their value (Lahm, et al., 1996). We may not know it and may not have an underlying disability but we are utilizing basic technology (e.g. phones, calculators) in ways that are similar to how individuals with disabilities utilize assistive technology (e.g. text-to-speech, screen readers) in their life endeavors (Stumbo, Martin, & Hedrick, 2009). However, AT is different from technology utilized by individuals without disabilities in that, for the individual with a disability, the utilization of AT may make activities possible; whereas, for individuals without disabilities technology may be used to make activities easier to complete (Stodden et al., 2006). But what exactly is AT? An accurate definition is necessary in order for us to further elaborate on the broad topic of AT.

Assistive technology refers to the items, devices or equipment, whether commercially modified or customized, that are used to increase, maintain, or enhance the functioning of individuals with disabilities (“Fctd,”n.d.). While these devices are intended to work by ameliorating the functional needs of individuals with disabilities they currently appear to help facilitate individ...

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