Assistive and Adaptive Technology

What is Assistive and Adaptive Technology

Assistive and Adaptive Technology is the term used to cover all hardware, software and peripherals which can be used to make life easier for the disabled user. It includes a very broad spectrum from the very specialised i.e. screen readers for the visually impaired to products which most people use but that some of the disabled find extra helpful such as scanners and digital recorders request.

What are the benefits?

A correctly selected choice of hardware, software and peripherals can allow users to access information and produce their work independently and to do existing tasks more efficiently.

What are the problems?

Each individual has their own specific needs and therefore their own equipment requirements. Sometimes those requirements change over time, it is not a matter of providing everything to everyone in the hope that spending money solves problems. Technology solutions must be selected with care, training and ongoing support must considered. Sometimes the best solution to a problem is free and does not involve any technology at all!

Do you do training?

Yes. Most students will be trained by their local university who will have Student Support teams employed to do this. However we will happily supply training to anyone who needs support within their own home, providing funding has been approved by the relevant authority. If you are unsure whether you are covered please do call us and we will liaise with your funding body to clarify the situation for you.

I have more questions what should I do?

Call us! We welcome all questions and will always do our best to answer them. Where appropriate we will refer you to your funding body or other relevant party; we will provide the names and numbers of the people you need to speak with and wherever possible remain a point of reference for you.