Assistive technology is “any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individual with disabilities” (Cook & Hussey, 2000, pp.5).
This definition suggests that assistive technology can be many different types of technology and not just the latest electronic gismos we see on the television. For example a simply piece of equipment such as an easy reach is considered to be assistive technology. On the other hand assistive technology can also relate to advanced devices such as an iPad or communicative device.
New technologies such as the iPad are being readily adopted by people with disabilities, including those with complex communication needs. (AAC-RERC white paper, 2009). The iPad is a touch screen interface device, which is, used purely through the use of fingers interaction. It is a slick, thin tablet which is hand held. The iPad is 241.2mm X 185.7mmin length vs with a depth of 8.8mm and weight of 601g. This is a very slim and lightweight device for the type of functions it is capable of providing. The cost for the basic iPad2 with 16GB you will be looking at paying $579 or $729 for the iPad3.
Retrieved from: http://www.ubergizmo.com/2011/03/ipad-2-review/
The iPad itself comes with basic applications on it such as a calendar, time and basic note taking capabilities. From here you are able to download any applications that are available on the apple app market that are suitable to your needs. This makes the iPad different from other devices because it is a platform from which you can design its purpose and function according to your own needs.
The iPad can be used in classrooms to increase the occupational engagement of the learner during the lesson. It is good for children because they can physically interact with the iPad which produces a longer attention span.
This video provides an example of children using this assistive technology in the classroom. They use it without the assistance of adults and are fully captivated by learning via the device.
The iPad is also very common for children who have disabilities and are unable to communicate verbally. The following video is a fantastic example of how this device can be used for children with communicative disabilities.
iPads are great tools to enhance learning and development however people with disabilities also need to play! The following video demonstrates people with muscular dystrophy controlling a remote control car through the use of an iPad.
This shows the diversity of the iPad and really emphasizes the point that if you can imagine it then you can make it happen. The iPad is only going to grew in its ability to tackle new and more extreme uses.
The iPad being used to control a remote control car shows that it has really stepped on the toes of occupational deprivation.
The iPad is going to keep breaking occupational deprivation for people with disabilities and enable these people to ultimately, to an extent, not be disabled at all.
AAC-RERC white paper. (2009). Mobile devices & communication apps.
Retrieved from
Cook, A. M., & Hussey, S. M. (2000). Assistive technologies: Principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby
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