- Assistive technology is a term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices for people that have disabilities (Wikipedia 2011). Assistive technology allows people with varying needs to be able to participate in society to their full ability and provides independence to the user.
A piece of adaptive equipment that was used in class was a jellybean switch. They are 64mm around and weigh about 56 grams. The average cost of a jellybean switch is $90 (NZ). A standard Jellybean switch allows the person using the switch to meet a variety of needs and is recommended for students and educational use mostly. It is used with students who can access a smaller target area. It is plugged into a appliance and used to access the functions of the appliance, such as turning it on and off (Star mobility and disability 2011). This piece of equipment provides a student with a access point to using a appliance and the freedom to be using it independently. As said in the lecture in class a switch such as this one can be used to control a computer which opens up many possibilities for the user. Here is a website that can be visited to buy a jellybean switch in NZ.
Wikipedia (2011). Assistive technology.Retrieved on 11th April 2011 from en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assistive_technology
Star mobility and disability (2011) Jelly bean switch. Retrieved on 27 April 2011. From http://www.starmobility.co.nz/
