Tutorial Seven: Assistive Technoogy

Cook and Hussy's definition of 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 individuals with disabilities"

( Cook and Hussey, 2000, p.5)Cook, A.M., & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby

One piece of technology that was introduced to us during this tute was the big red switch also referred to as the large jelly bean by the star education website. This switch is easy-to-see due to it being overly large and bright red and easy-to-activate becuase of its 127mm diameter surface. Now the price of these big red switches are $90.00 excluding GST.

Now how would you use this big red switch well...to activate it you can use...
-electrical appliances via an environmental control unit
-battery operated adapted toys and games
-a computer through a switch interface
-AAC device through a switch port.

So are you thinking why would someone use this and whats the purpose?

The large colourful surface makes this switch ideal for students with visual, cognitive, or physical requirements. Cord storage compartment in the base and easy to mount with a standard flange base. Provides a tactile and audible feedback to the user. Designed for activation no matter where pressed. This would be ideal for someone with gross motor movement, they will be able to press the button with ease to activate whatever they desire to have it connected too which of course enables more independence.