As any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially or off the shelf, modified or customized, that increases, maintains, or improves functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
Published in Chapter:
Evaluating Systemic Assistive Technology Needs
Noel Estrada-Hernández (University of Iowa, USA) and James R. Stachowiak (University of Iowa, USA)
Copyright: © 2010
|Pages: 12
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-61520-817-3.ch016
Abstract
This chapter will focus on the impact that teacher knowledge of and comfort with assistive technology has on the use of this technology by students with disabilities and how these factors are identified through conducting needs assessment-based research. This chapter begins with a discussion of what is assistive technology and the role it plays in the life of a person with a disability. This will include a discussion of the idea that the earlier AT is introduced to the individual, the more likely it will continue to be used and the larger effect it will have on the individual’s future education, employment, and independent living needs. Also, this chapter will introduce the concept and application of needs assessment, as well as the benefits of conducting this type of research to improve the quality of AT services. This discussion will be supported by an initial discussion of results and experiences in conducting the Iowa Assistive Technology Needs Assessment focusing on the methods used and limitations encountered while conducting this project. Finally, recommendations for future AT-based research will be provided. By the end of this chapter, readers will understand the pressing issues in AT training for teachers, how to determine what is needed, and what is being done to improve overall AT knowledge and comfort.