Research Activity

Enrique Quinata
ED 443G

Assistive Technology

1. Enable Mart – Olympia Video Magnifier
http://www.enablemart.com/Catalog/Portable-Magnifiers/Olympia-Video-Magnifier

The Olympia Video Magnifier has a wide range of magnification settings. The dimensions are 8.2” length, 5.4” width, 4.25” height, and weight 2.5lbs. This portable magnifier could also connect to a compatible television. The product assists individuals with minimal site. It has a keyboard and mouse to access other computer software. The cost is $1,409.00. This is a great tool for individuals with vision impairment but the cost it to steep.

2. Tobii ATI – Socially Speaking
http://www.assistivetech.com/p-sociallyspeaking.htm

This is a product developed by a speech pathologists it is text-based augmentative enabling the user say what they want using their method and vocabulary. The user customizes their on screen keyboard to communicate effortlessly. It provides face-to-face conversations, E-mail, instant messaging and phone calls. The listed price for this software, range from $7,000.00 to $9,000.00. This is dependant on which bundle you purchase. There are other accessories that could be purchased separately but it is very costly.

3. Telecommunications device for the deaf
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telecommunications_device_for_the_deaf

The Telecommunications device for the deaf provides a means for individuals with hearing or speech disabilities to communicate on a telephone. The device is about the size of a laptop computer. It has a screen displaying typed text electronically. The method of operation is similar to having a messenger, relay information back and forth. The difference is the messenger is an operator that types what said from one person and says what is typed. These devices are distributed free to individuals with hearing impairments or deaf.


4. Family Guide to Assistive Technology (organization)
http://www.pluk.org/AT1.html

This is a family guide to assistive technology prepared by Parents, Let’s Unite for Kids (PLUK). It provides an informative layout for parents in making decisions on AT, making part of a child’s education, and questions and answers section. One of the interesting links is funding. It explains the use of Medicaid funds to purchase the assistive technology for the student. It further explains that if a current assistive technology device is no longer needed due to growth or development of the student. Another assistive technology device will be purchased to accommodate.

5. Autism, Speech and Assistive Technology
http://www.autistics.org/library/spchasst.html

This is an article about a student with autism and his transition to university. His mode of communication is through his keyboard. A few people at the school were trying to get him to part from the keyboard but he refuses. The keyboard is his freedom. Just as people on with physical disability may use a wheelchair and experience the freedom of mobility. The keyboard is his freedom to communicate.

6. Enhanced memory aid for persons with traumatic brain injury
http://www.atechnews.com/home.html

The AbleLink Technologies in Colorado announced a new version of its memory aid. Schedule Assistant is a PDA-based program that uses pictures and audio reminders to alert the user of events or tasks to be performed. The Quick Timer an added feature alerts the user schedule events that would take place during the day. The article mentioned that the mainstream reminder tools are often too difficult for those with cognitive issues to use.

7. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association
http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/treatment/assist_tech.htm

The American Speech-Language-Hearing Association provides information for individuals with hearing disabilities. It has treatment and rehabilitation link that provides information about hearing aids. There is also a link address issues that individuals are unsure about myth and fact. The information focuses on assistive listening devices, visual systems and sound field systems. It provides information on personal frequency modulation (FM) systems that is commonly used to amplify sound. They have a link to find a professional but Guam doesn’t have any.

8. World-class Assistive Technology
http://www.rehabtool.com/at.html

The World-class Assistive Technology is an informative and helpful website it provides information on the various areas of assistive technology and helps in finding a product you need. The most interesting section is the resources it is divided into three parts. The find portion helps search for solution to your needs. The talk portion allows you to ask questions about your specific needs. The learn portion gives you additional information about your specific needs.

9. Eldercare Locator
http://www.eldercare.gov/Eldercare/Public/resources/fact_sheets/assistive_tech.asp

This website is nicely focused on our elderly. It explains what assistive technology is and provides a listing of assistive devices and services available. The website further explains how to determine if assistive technology is for you or not. It provides a case study as an example of a family’s involvement and possible training as well. It also addresses how an individual supplement the cost through Medicaid/Medicare or VA.

10. Great Schools
http://www.schwablearning.org/pdfs/e_guide_at.pdf?date=3-13-06&status=new

This worksheet provides an overview of assistive technology and a summary on how it addresses various disabilities. It also has a research-based method for finding the right assistive technology product for the student. The focus is on the student’s strengths to assist in selecting assistive technology device for their limitation. It provides consumer tips for evaluating assistive technology. It strongly urges that the student tries it out to determine if it provides assistance sought. Because it is the student that will ultimately have to use it the device for the duration needed.

11. Learning Disabilities Assistive Technologies
http://www.gatfl.org/ldguide/default.htm

The introduction of this article provides a sense of purpose as to how assistive technology could have assisted these children. Just think about it, if a kid is blind and he or she is trying to purchase an item at the store, what are the chances of the kid getting the correct change? It brings great insight to how we should analyze a student with disability. The article further explains how assistive technology evolved from devices for the physically disabled on to assisting individuals with learning disabilities.

12. Empowering Rural Students with Disabilities through Assistive Technology
http://www.sedl.org/rural/seeds/assistivetech/

The article focuses on expanding the concept of assistive technology into the rural areas. Developments in computer technology expand the potential in improving interactions and quality of life. The development will ultimately in promote independent living and productive employment in the rural areas. Challenges that everyone face is the continued upgrade of a technology or new technology. Educators need to be abreast to the advancement of assistive technology to provide the best for the students.


13. GSTS Designs – Multi Action Switches
http://www.gstsdesigns.com/AssistiveTechnologySwitches/MultiActionSwitches.htm

This website allows you to select from an array of switches. This product would assist individuals with a physical disability. This is a concept of universal design because it would be nice to have all the switches to you house all in the palm of you hand. With the array of switches a person can select one that would best assist or meet their needs. The prices are different. It depends on which model you purchase. You can request information on a particular product. The Multi Action Switch can be accessed wirelessly due to its compatibility with Discover and Intellitools software.

14. The Interagency Working Group on Assistive Technology Mobility Devices
http://www.icdr.us/ATMD_Report/AppenA.htm

This is the memorandum from President George W. Bush directed various agencies to work together to address individuals with limited mobility. He wanted to open doors for this community and level the competitive field with typical citizens the intent is to provide them the means to seek employment. The President also wanted to increase access to education to ultimately live an independent life. Because of this directive people with mobile disabilities where able get mobile with powered wheel chairs free.


15. Independent Living Technologies – Rollator
http://www.iltsource.com/Rollators_s/124.htm

A rollator is designed as four wheeled walker that has a seat. This is an assistive device that would help individuals who difficulties walking, standing and possibly balance. This product would require the use of strong upper strength to assist. This is a concept of using an individual’s strength to compliment their disability. The height is adjustable to operate comfortably for the user. Some are easily collapsible for movement from inside to outside of the car. The prices range from $300 to $400 depending on the brand or accessories purchased.