Guide to Assistive Technology

According to the definition proposed in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998, "Assistive technology are products, devices or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that are used to maintain, increase or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."

Assistive technology products can enable people with disabilities to:

• accomplish daily living tasks
• assist them in communication, education, work or recreation activities
• help them achieve greater independence and enhance their quality of life
• help improve physical or mental functioning
• help prevent the worsening of a condition
• help improve a person's capacity to learn

Some examples of assistive technology products include:

• Telecommunications device for the deaf (TDD)
• Speech recognition software
• Text-to-speech software
• Spell checker
• Closed captioning
• Ergonomic keyboards

Resources on assistive technology:

• RehabTool.com - http://www.rehabtool.com/at.html
• Assistive Technology Boogie - http://www.inclusive.com/AT_boogie/at30.swf
• Adapting Classrooms for AT Users: Challenges and Solutions - http://www.kornreich.org/Webcasts/AdaptingClassroomsForAT.aspx
• Form Pilot - http://www.colorpilot.com/formpilot.html
• National Assistive Technology Research Institute (NATRI) - http://natri.uky.edu/index.html
• NATRI - How Assistive Technology Resources Can Go Awry - http://natri.uky.edu/resources/reports/awry.html
• Assistive Technology: Opening Doors to Independence - http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x2G1U6U3zh8&feature=player_embedded