Tutorial #8 Assistive technology!!

Provide a definition of Assistive technology (your Cook and Hussey reading may be helpful with this).

Assistive technology is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices and the process used in selecting, locating, and using them. AT promotes greater independence for people with disabilities by enabling them to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish, or had great difficulty accomplishing, by providing enhancements to or changed methods of interacting with the technology needed to accomplish such tasks. Although, Cook & Hussey (2001)[1] report this term is usually not used for rehabilitative devices and for devices that able-bodied find useful. According to disability advocates, technology is often created without regard to people with disabilities, creating unnecessary barriers to hundreds of millions of people.

Retrieved on June 10th, 2008 from http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assistive_technology


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

The Glitter roll music box/switch is a switch that provides multi-sensory stimulation. When the clear cylindrical roller is moved, a musical tune is played and a colourful display of sparkling pompoms and glitter tumbles inside the tube. It requires 2AA batteries to function, as well as comes with a 1/8 inch jack and a 1/8 inch connector cord for activation - which is the universal size so it can be connected to other power boxes. It is 14"x7"x5" and is approximately $99.95 US. The glitter roll music box can be used as an external capacity switch when connected.


How does your chosen piece of equipment increase functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture.

The glitter roll music box/switch provides a functional element for its users because when connected it can be used as a switch to turn things on and off. This is of practical use at the home as it can be used in a number of activities, - if connected into the power box and then connected to a light, the user can use this equipment, rather than fliking switches, which can be difficult 4 individuls with artheritis