Ten (10) Research Articles on Assistive Adaptive Technology
1. How the Internet is Improving the Lives of Americans with Disabilities
Author: Humphrey Taylor
Name of Website:
http://www.harrisinteractive.com/harris_poll/index.asp?PID=93This article is actually a poll study done on the impact of how the Internet has improved the livelihood of adults with disabilities. They feel connected with the “outside world” – they are better informed and they can communicate with others who have similar interests and experiences.
This poll study is quite interesting. It was conducted in 2000. It is almost the year 2009, and I realize that the Internet is making more than just a profound impact on everyone’s lives. People can “work” from inside their own home and earn money, take online education courses, communicate online, seek much information, and more – just by utilizing the Internet! It is almost a MUST for everyone to utilize the Internet. The Internet is rapidly becoming an integral part of everyone’s livelihood.
2. Technology: Everyone, Everywhere, Everyday (September, 2004)
Author: Judith Geppert
Website:
http://www.rncasemanager.com/articles/TechnologyEveryoneEverywhereEveryday.aspThis article tells about how the author utilized assistive technology to lead a resilient life in spite of her disabilities (cerebral palsy and other health problems). She is unable to use her hands. At the age of four she used the IBM typewriter in order to communicate. As she got older she obtained the use of an electric wheelchair. Judith Geppert has been employed for 35 years with a computer company. With her self-confidence she has a sense of purpose instead of feeling that she is a burden on society. Utilization of computer technology, especially with Internet has brought the author’s life to leaping bounds.
3. Journal of Distance Education: The Roles of Emerging and Conventional Technologies in Serving Children and Adolescents with Special Needs in Rural and Northern Communities
Authors: Judy Roberts, Julia O’Sullivan, and Joan Howard
Website:
http://www.jofde.ca/index.php/jde/article/view/74/55This article highlights the research findings about the types of technology that have been used successfully to serve and educate children with special needs, their families, teachers, and health care providers living in the north and to relate these findings to research and practice that could occur in open and distance learning. This article also expresses the importance of how the Internet plays an important role in everyone’s lives by paving access to online education and up-to-date information. Use of the Internet accommodates especially those who need assistive adaptive technology by providing them with many online resources.
4. Assessing the Benefits of Assistive Technologies for Activities and Participation
Authors: Marcia J. Scherer and Rob Glueckauf
Website:
http://blogs.ya.com/patscott/files/out.pdfAssistive technologies (ATs) are a vital component of the Environmental Factors domain of the World Health Organization’s International Classification of Functioning, Disability and Health (ICF). This article identifies the Environmental Factors of the ICF and depicts how ATs can improve the functioning of individuals with disabilities in community environments. The need for comprehensive assessment before selecting ATs is highly stressed, particularly of the individual’s current goals, past experiences with the use of technologies and other supports, and predisposition to use the AT as well as alternative or additional supports. Comprehensive assessment asserts that effective use of ATs and other supports will be maximized by matching device and support features to users’ goals, preferences and environmental resources.
5. Constructing an Assistive Technology Toolkit for Young Children: Views from the Field
Author: Sharon Judge, Ph.D.
Website:
http://jset.unlv.edu/20/JSETv21n4.pdf#page=18The impact of Assistive Technology to allow children with disabilities to participate in family, school, and community activities is becoming more recognized. However, teachers, families, and other stakeholders still lack the full potential knowledge as to what ATs and other supports are available to accommodate these children. This article illustrates a proactive strategy for meeting the needs of young children with disabilities through an assistive technology approach. Surveys were completed by thirty-eight (38) early childhood special education professionals to assess what assistive technology tools are most useful for working with young children with disabilities. Results specified that communication and low-technology devices were deemed most useful. Discussion centers on the effectiveness of an assistive technology toolkit that supports the learning, language, and motor development of young children with disabilities. ATs lists are shown: communication tools (visual schedule, calendar, lists); movement tools (weighted vests), and learning tools (adaptive scissors).
6. Motor Disabilities – Assistive Technologies
Author: WebAIM is an initiative of:
Website:
http://www.webaim.org/articles/motor/assistive.phpThis article lists, shows pictures of, and explains some of the major types of technologies for motor disabilities. The public is acquainted with the kinds of issues that people with motor disabilities face. Many of these types result in similar technological needs with regard to computer access. Some of the major types of assistive technologies that one will find valuable information on are: mouth stick, head wand, single-switch access, sip and puff switch, oversized trackball mouse, adaptive keyboard, eye tracking, and voice recognition software.
7. The Importance of Assistive Technology Outcomes (January 2002)
Author: Marcia Scherer Ph.D., MDH
Institute for Matching Person and Technology
Website:
http://www.e-bility.com/articles/at.phpMarcia Scherer’s revolutionary, interdisciplinary approach provides research-based guidance on ways rehabilitation professionals can collaborate with consumers and communities to ensure that assistive technology is put to the best possible use, and that consumers benefit by getting the most out of these devices. Dr. Scherer has formulated “Steps in User-Focused AT Assessment” in order to achieve better assistive technology outcomes for potential users:
Steps
Goals and dreams
Need for assistive technology
Readiness for assistive technology
Assistive technology and lifestyle fit
Comfort with use
8. Voice Recognition Technology From a User’s Perspective (October 2002)
Author: Giannina Lodato
Website:
http://www.e-bility.com/articles/voice_recognition.phpThe author had worked as a Correspondence Secretary for a California State Senator. She had also taught English as a second language. She has multiple sclerosis (MS); her hands can no longer type an entire document. She now relies on voice recognition technology to do the typing for her. With this technology Mrs. Lodato can communicate with others via email and word processing.
9. Usability review: Who designed this thing anyway? (September 2008)
Author: Scott Rains
The Rolling Rains Report
Website:
http://www.e-bility.com/articles/universal-design.phpThis article is an accessibility review of the SPOT Satellite Messenger to provide a new type of personal safety device for people with disability when travelling. Julie Jones is the founder and CEO of Engineered Travel, a company that works with manufacturers of existing products and shows them how to apply Universal Design thinking. She teamed up with Bob Davis of the GEOS Travel Safety Group to provide a new type of personal safety device, especially for travelers. It is an orange and black rugged-looking waterproof unit that has several functions: includes 9-1-1 mode, a less urgent Help mode, and a simple Check-in mode. Check out this website for more info on this revolutionary device.
10. Linux accessibility for people with vision impairment (July 2007)
Author: Sean Murphy
Website:
http://www.e-bility.com/articles/linux-accessibility.phpLinux is a free operating system that was introduced into the computer world in the early 1990’s. What is of major importance was that the source code was freely available. Since its debut individuals and companies have volunteered their time and effort to develop a wide scope of free software, including screen readers for people with vision impairment. One type of software or hardware is a “synthesizer”, which converts text into synthetic speech. People with vision impairment use the speech to know what is happening on the screen. The screen reader sends the text to the synthesizer for the synthetic speech to be generated.
Ten (10) Websites on Assistive Adaptive Technology
1. Adaptive Child
http://www.adaptivechild.com/index.asp?PageAction=VIEWCATS&Category=26&gclid=CJXe68qFw5cCFRIcawodDXMxSgThis website features adaptive equipment that allows children with special needs to participate in daily living activities. A wide range of devices includes adaptive eating utensils, standing aids, mobility aids and adaptive furniture. The online user is able to click on links that enables him/her to view the devices by “category” or by “product”, and the prices are listed. If one is interested to purchase a product, he must have an account and is able to have a “shopping cart”. There are other links where one can click on to request information on the organization itself, online security, its resources, and more. This website is excellent. It looks like this:
ABA & AutismActive Play ToysAdaptive EquipmentAquatic TherapyBooks/ResourcesChild LocatorsClassroom Furniture Clocks and TimersClothing & DiapersCommunication AidsComputer Software Furniture & MatsHandwritingMotor SkillsMovementOrganizersPuzzles and GamesSensorimotorSpeech DevelopmentStrollersGreeting & Gift CardsCloseouts Adaptive Equipment >
Adaptive equipment allows special needs children to participate in daily living activities. We feature a wide range of devices including adaptive eating utensils, standing aids, mobility aids and adaptive furniture.
Bathroom, Bathing and Shower AssistanceAdaptive bath chairs and shower chairs for children with special needs who require bathroom assistance.
Car SeatsAll our car seats have all been specifically designed for children with special needs. All provide exceptional body support and promote a proper seating position. Many accessories are available allowing you to customize your car seat to your specific child's positioning needs. All safety car seats listed here meet or exceed the US Federal Safety Standard MVSS 213 (Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standard) where required.
Chairs & SeatingOur adaptive and therapeutic chairs / special needs seats are designed with proper seating and positioning in mind. We offer a wide range of seating devices ranging from simple chairs to seats that provide substantial support.
DressingElastic shoe laces for children with special needs.
Drinking & EatingSpecial needs cutlery including plates, utensils and cups.
InflatablesInflatables encourage large motors movements, balance reactions, tilting reactions, motor planning and sensory integration.
Lift SystemsLift systems are one of the single most essential pieces of adaptive equipment in any home where a parent or caregiver has to aid with transfers.
Mobility Aids - Walkers, Gait Trainers, Crutches Mobility aids for children with special needs.
PositioningRolls, wedges and positioning systems for children and adults that provide proper prone and supine positioning.
RespiratoryDesigned with graphics to appeal to children, these nebulizers administer medication to people in forms of a liquid mist to the airways.
Safety EquipmentSafety equipment for children with special needs.
Special Needs StrollersHigh performance, high durabilty strollers built for special needs persons. Models made for both children and adults.
Standing Aids / StandersProne standers, supine standers, vertical standers. Standing aids to assist with independent standing, sitting up and exercise of upper body.
Swings and Vestibular TherapyNo child should be denied the fun of playing in the park or at home with friends - even if that child has physical disabilities. Psychologists, educators, and parents agree that play carries great importance in a child's development. Our special needs Swings provide everyone the opportunity to enjoy this activity!
Therapy Systems / RehabilitationFind a variety of benches that are ideal for work on improving posture, weight bearing and balance. Look here for support tools to assist in transfers, accessibility, stabilization and skill development.
Toileting & Commodes Our toileting and commode products provide support and comfortable functionality making this "necessary function" more relaxed for parents, caregivers, and children.
TricyclesThese tricycles make it possible for children and adults with physical disabilities to experience for the first time, a very essential play skill: riding. These special needs tricycles are designed with built-in adaptive support features to help children and adults sit and pedal themselves independently.
WheelchairsOur pediatric wheelchairs are designed specifically for a wide range of children. All wheelchairs can be configured with many accessories to meet your specific needs. Comfortable, sporty, and reliable!
Adaptive Equipment >
Mobility Aids Special Needs Toys Special Needs Strollers Special Needs SoftwareBathroom Aids Weighted Vests Adaptive Equipment Autism Resources StandersDesign & Optimization by Captiva MarketingLogin to YourAccountView Shopping CartLooking for something you don't see on our site? Call us at: (877) 664-4565 or request information on our
Request Form The Adaptive Child 11724 Lackland Industrial DriveSt. Louis, Mo 63146
Tel: (877) 664-4565Fax: (800) 664-4534
Local & International
Tel: (314) 692-2424
Fax: (314) 692-2428
2. Making a World of Difference"High-tech assistive, adaptive and accessibility aids for children and adults with disabilities and special needs..."
http://www.rehabtool.com/This website welcomes the public to view a variety of high-tech assistive and adaptive technology products, augmentative and alternative communication devices, computer access equipment, multilingual speech synthesis and voice recognition software. It also offers a great selection of virtual on-screen keyboards, voice-enabled communication boards, as well as cognitive rehabilitation tools adapted to the special needs of the disabled. Its mission is to assist children and adults with disabilities to enhance their lives, increase their independence and productivity, and obtain greater social inclusion through the use of leading-edge assistive.
3. SPECIAL EDUCATION
http://specialed.about.com/od/assistivetechnology/Technology_in_the_Classroom.htmhttp://specialed.about.com/od/assistivetechnology/Technology_in_the_Classroom.htm
This website provides a wealth of information and links for the online user to utilize. There are links on Special Education, For Teachers, Disabilities, Behavior Support, and more:
Technology in the Classroom
Assistive and adaptive technology to support special education in the regular classroom and the special education classroom.
Augmentative Communication (7) Text to Speech Technology Text To Speech (6)Using a Pen ScannerPen scanners, handheld scanner and Iris Pens
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Education AdsAdaptive Technology Classroom Technology Classroom Rental Computer Training Classroom Computer Learning CenterEffective Use of SwitchesAssistive Switches
Augmentative or Alternative CommunicationAugmentative or Alternative Communication or AAC. Picture symbol systems, symbol boards, voice output etc.
Word Q - Predictive Software ApplicationThis application makes Dyslexic students want to write! Find out what all the excitement is when language delayed or impaired students use Word. This is a great website!
4. Adaptive Technology and Assistive Devices
http://www.uofaweb.ualberta.ca/ssds/at.cfmThere is an agency, Specialized Support and Disability Services (SSDS), that promotes and coordinates the efforts of the University of Alberta’s departments and off-campus agencies in accommodating the students’ needs and provides services, which help to balance educational opportunities for students whose disabilities involve any number of conditions affecting mobility, vision, hearing, learning, and physical or mental health. In order to access the adaptive technology available at either the Edmonton or Augustana SSDS offices, a student’s needs will be evaluated by the Adaptive Technology Specialist. Once the assessment is complete and recommendations are made, SSDS staff will assist with applications for funding for recommended equipment, software and training. Listed below are assistive technology and adaptive devices that are offered from SSDS:
Braille Devices and SoftwareConcept Mapping SoftwareErgonomic SupportsAssistive Listening DevicesScreen Magnification Devices and SoftwareSpecialized Devices and SoftwareVoice Input Software (recognition)Voice Output Devices and Software Notetaking DevicesWheelchairs & Scooters
Other Equipment
Viewers can click on to links that specify more on the above-mentioned adaptive technology and assistive devices. Pictures of the devices are even shown. This is a very informative website.
5. Visionaware Organization
http://www.visionaware.org/assistive-technologyFor individuals who are blind or have low vision, assistive technology refers to any adaptive device or software program that helps to overcome the barriers presented by vision loss. This website provides the resources that can help viewers to explore the ever-expanding range of assistive/adaptive devices, workplace technology, and hands-on workshops and conferences. Some devices websites that viewers can link with are “low vision optical devices” such as glasses and magnifiers. I like this website because my daughters and I are very near-sighted, and I am curious as to what device(s) we need, not just eyeglasses and contact lens … corrective eye surgery is not in the picture.
6. Assistive / Adaptive Technology
http://dawn.thot.net/cd/4.htmlThis website is good for information only. It shows no pictures of devices. Information about assistive technology products types is provided (for visual, mobility, language, and learning impairment). One can read two articles on this same website, “How to Choose Appropriate Adapted Technology” and “Questions to Ask in Choosing Adaptive Technology”.
7. Perkin's School for the Blind
http://www.perkins.org/assistive-technology/Perkins School for the Blind offers products, training, and services that can empower those with vision loss or learning disability. There are talking computers, tactile tools, and digital devices that can provide innovative methods for people with visual or other impairments to further their education, sharpen skills, and perform daily tasks. Viewers can learn about and purchase these products
http://support.perkins.org/site/PageServer?pagename=store_homepage.
The above-named website provides information and pictures of their products. This is a good website.
8. Independent Living Technologies
http://www.iltsource.com/Complete Features - ClarityLife C900 Amplified Mobile • Amplifies up to 20 decibels (Hearing Aid Compatible)• Simple, Easy to Use Phone• Large buttons for easy dialing• See clearly with the large backlit screen and large text size• Easily place and receive calls with large 4-button operation• In case of an emergency, get help quickly by pressing the red emergency button.• Flashing Visual Ringer• Strong Vibrating Ringer• Send and Receive Text Messages• 200 Phonebook Memory• Program phonebook by sending text message• Built-in Flashlight
Independent Living Technologies is committed to providing a valuable resource for people with disabilities by offering competitively priced quality assisted living technology and products. This website shows pictures, provides information, and quotes the prices of their products. This is one example viewers will see:
ClarityLife C900 Amplified Cell Phone
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Our Price: $269.99 Sale Price: $259.99
Availability: Usually Ships in 3 to 5 Business Days Product Code: CLC900
9. Division of Blind Services
http://dbs.myflorida.com/assistive_technology/One may find this site easy to navigate and may also find that he/she is able to access the information on all of its pages. The Division of Blind Services is Florida’s state agency responsible for ensuring that people of all ages who are blind or visually impaired can live independently and achieve their goals. If anyone should have any difficulty reading any page, there is contact information at the bottom of every page on this site. This site has links where one can click on to seek more information such as client services. Viewers are able to have an insight as to what services this site can offer. This section focuses on common types of assistive technology, adaptive devices, and low vision products that might be used to:
· access printed or electronic information
· provide electronic or printed materials to others
· produce materials in alternate formats
Assistive Technology, Adaptive Technology, Low Vision Products (links from the site):
Low Technology: Manual Braille Writing Devices and LabelersClosed Circuit Televisions (CCTV)Optical Scanners & Optical Character Recognition (OCR) SoftwareElectronic Notetakers and Accessible PDAsScreen Enlargement SoftwareScreen ReadersRefreshable Braille DisplayPortable GPS Navigational DevicesBraille and Tactile Graphic EmbossersBraille Transcription/Translation Software 10. National Centre for Technology in Education
http://www.ncte.ie/SpecialNeedsICT/ResourcesAdvice/AssistiveTechnology/What is assistive technology?
This website provides information on how students with special needs can overcome difficulties accessing and operating a computer, the standard keyboard, mouse, and so on. The use of more specialized technology often referred to as special needs peripherals (computer additions) or assistive technology may be required. This website defines “assistive technology” as “any item, piece of equipment or product system that is used to improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities”. Some of the common types of assistive technology devices include:
-
Alternative Keyboards -
Alternative Mice -
Switches -
Touch Screens -
Augmentative and Alternative Communications -
Portable DevicesSoftware-based assistive technology include: - Voice Recognition - Screen Magnifiers - Screen Readers - Speech Synthesizers
One type of assistive technology that is described in this website looks like this:
Large Keyboards
Large keyboards with keys that are up to four times the size of standard computer keys can be useful for students with visual difficulties or limited hand function. These are available in multi-color, plain white, ABC or Qwerty format. Some have even speech feedback, permitting students to talk and work at the same time.
I like this website with its descriptive information and pictures.
(Assignment #1 continues)
Ten (10) Websites on Assistive AdaptiveTechnology Organizations
1. ndss national down syndrome society
http://www.ndss.org/index.php“Our mission is to benefit people with Down syndrome and their families through national leadership in education, research and advocacy”
This is a great website. It has many links that will allow viewers to navigate onto many other relating sites. Much information is provided. There is information on the organization itself, national down syndrome society, on down syndrome (a disability), on education, development, community life, and more. I was provided even more information when I clicked on “education, development & community life”. I learned more with these links: 1. About Education, Development & Community Life
2. Early Intervention
3. Elementary & Secondary Education
4. Transition & Adulthood
5. Therapies & Development
6. Managing Behavior
7. Family Issues
8. Recreation and Friendship
One can do more research from other sites to learn more about how assistive adaptive technology is integrated in physical, speech and language, and occupational therapy. I can see how this strong organization greatly benefits those with Down syndrome, their families, and educators.
2. AHEAD Association on Higher Education and Disability
“AHEAD envisions educational and societal environments that value disability and embody equality of opportunity.”
http://www.ahead.org/
There are all kinds of information provided on this website (the organization itself, Disability Resources, Annual Conferences, Events and Workshops, Students and Parents, and more). AHEAD is the premiere professional association for individuals involved in the development of policy and in the stipulation of quality services to meet the needs of persons with disabilities engaged in all areas of higher education. One can utilize the navigation links provided to learn more about AHEAD’s mission and services.
3. AFB American Foundationfor the Blind
Expanding possibilities for people with vision loss
http://www.afb.org/default.asphttp://www.afb.org/Section.asp?SectionID=4One can navigate on many sites starting with the home page site. All kinds of information are provided from what this organization is all about . . . to linking onto other organizations websites in relation to this disability of vision loss. The site on technology mentions that computer technology, including specialized hardware or software that simulates the human voice reading the computer screen or renders hard-copy output into Braille, designed to help persons with disabilities perform daily tasks, has impacted the lives of numerous individuals with visual impairments. Some of the sites that will help one to learn more about technology are: Cell Phone Accessibility, Assistive Technology, Web Accessibility, Electronic Books, Buying a Computer, Screen Reader Tips, Tips for Computer Users with Low Vision, and more. This is a good website to look into.
4. A Non-Profit Information Clearinghouse
Facilitating Technology Access for Children with Special Needs
http://www.dreamms.org/This is a great website where one can navigate the website links. This site provides valuable information and resources through other sites, newsletter entitled DIRECTIONS, Topic Searches, Government Destinations, Corporate, Software, and Special Education Organization Destinations, and more. I recommend this website, especially to parents and educators.
5. Quality Indicators for Assisitive Technology Services
http://natri.uky.edu/assoc_projects/qiat/index.htmlThis organization’s mission is to guide the development and delivery of quality assistive technology services provided for users. This organization “provides input into the ongoing process of identifying, disseminating, and implementing a set of widely-applicable Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services in School Settings that can be used as a tool to support:
* school districts as they strive to develop and provide quality assistive technology services aligned to federal, state and local mandates* assistive technology service providers as they evaluate and constantly improve their services* consumers of assistive technology services as they seek adequate assistive technology services which meet their needs* universities and professional developers as they conduct research and deliver programs that promote the development of the
competencies needed to provide quality assistive technology services* policy makers as they attempt to develop judicious and equitable policies related to assistive technology services.”
This organization website is a great resource and model for the Guam Public School System to look into and follow.
6. Hope Haven Organization
http://www.hope-haven.org/assistive-technology/This website introduces how assistive technology impacts the potential of children and adults with disabilities. “Devices such as switch-operated toys, communication tools and voice-activated computers give motion to those who cannot move and voices to those who cannot speak, enabling more independent living skill development for satisfying lives and careers.”
The Florida Alliance for Assistive Services and Technology (FAAST) Northeast Regional Demonstration Center is located at Hope Haven. Its mission is to “enhance the quality of life for Floridians with disabilities, regardless of age, by promoting the awareness of, access to, and advocacy for assistance technology”. FAAST provides the following services:
Assistive Technology Information and Referral. The Northeast Regional Demonstration Center provides information and referrals concerning assistive technology devices, funding sources and dealers.
Adaptive Equipment Lending Library. The Center maintains an inventory of assistive technology devices that may be borrowed for up to 30 days.
Adapted Toy Lending Library. The Center maintains an inventory of adapted toys that may be borrowed for up to 30 days.
Demonstrations, Tours and Presentations. FAAST provides both formal and informal demonstrations, tours and presentations to organizations on a variety of topics related to assistive technology.
Assistive Technology Evaluations and Training. This service helps individuals and businesses identify types of assistive technology that will assist individuals in living and working more independently. Training on how to use a device or assistive software is also available.
This is a great resource website for GPSS SPED Program to look into.
7. AAC Intervention.com Augmentative/Alternative Communication Intervention Products & Presentations Dr. Caroline Musselwhite & Julie Maro
http://aacintervention.com/This website provides information and fills order requests of Augmentative/ Alternative Communication Intervention Products and Presentations by Dr. Caroline Musselwhite and Julie Maro. This site was a bit confusing for me to navigate because I was not too sure where to click on. There were two links I clicked on – Tips & Tricks and Products. There are AAC Intervention Products for Early Childhood and Early Elementary, home, school and therapy settings. I would use this site as resource for my lesson plans.
8. The Family Center on Technology and Disability
http://www.fctd.info/about/purpose.phpThe Family Center is actually a resource designed to support organizations and programs that work with families of children and youth with disabilities. This website offers a wealth of information and services on the focus of assistive technologies. This site has great links:
AT Resources – (This is a database for information on assistive and instructional technology. A featured resource is “An Investigation of 2-Way Text Messaging Use with Deaf Students at the Secondary Level”.) Monthly Newsletters – (One issue features an interview with Leonard V. Pisano, Ph. D. to look at the role of the school psychologist in the selection and use of assistive and instructional technology.) AT Fact Sheets – (Links: Glossary, Assistive Technology 101, Assistive Technology and the IEP, Assistive Technology Laws)
AT Powerpoints – (Links: Assistive Technology in the Classroom, Assistive Technology Laws, AT Info for Families).
I would rate this site with five stars because this organization of individuals continues to update this valuable resource site.
9. The Collective Voice of the Assistive Technology Industry
http://www.atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3267The Assistive Technology Industry Association ("ATIA") is a not-for-profit membership organization of manufacturers, sellers and providers of technology-based assistive devices and/or services. A couple of its goals are to: establish and manage an annual Assistive Technology Conference that would provide a forum for education and communication to professional practitioners (teachers, occupational therapists, etc.) serving those with disabilities with the goal of providing enhanced benefits and opportunities to those with disabilities and to “speak with a common voice” for the AT industry and to collaborate with Electronics & Information Technology (EIT) companies and government on matters of common interest such as Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), and comparable continuing issues.
It seems to be a great organization, but there aren’t really any links that are easily accessible for me to seek more information and to know what other services are being offered. I think one must be a member to really know the in’s and out’s of this organization.
10. Aroga.com
http://www.aroga.com/default_en.asp This is a great website. I could easily link to the various sites. There is a links column:
Products
Low Vision
Blindness
Communication Aids
Physical Access
Education
Resources
Events
Training
News
Used Equipment
Resources
Contact
Search
Sign Up
I clicked on Low Vision. A variety of products was displayed on the screen. Then I clicked on one product. I was shown a picture and also given information of what it is and of its key features. To order or inquire of any product, there is a toll-free 1-800 number and an e-mail address.
What I found unique with this website is that the Aroga staff sent a wonderful holiday message. I believe that this organization would usually send holiday gifts to their clients. However, because of the impact of the economic turmoil on many Canadians, the entire staff agreed to forego their usual gift-giving and instead, donate the funds to various food banks and toy drives across the country. Imagine their Spirit of Christmas … AMAZING!
