Tutorial Eight: Assistive technology

Provide a definition of Assistive technology (your Cook and Hussey reading may be helpful with this).
Assistive technology is a generic term that includes assistive, adaptive, and rehabilitative devices and the process used in selecting, locating, and using them. AT promotes greater independence for people with disabilities by enabling them to perform tasks that they were formerly unable to accomplish, or had great difficulty accomplishing, by providing enhancements to or changed methods of interacting with the technology needed to accomplish such tasks.

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions.
Gooshy step talking sequencer #673 $117.95.
Size 10 ¼” x 71/4” x 3”. Requires 4 AA batteries.
Our step talking sequencers are perfect for the non-specking adult or child. It allows the user to express a sequential series of your pre-recorded messages (300 second total). The sequencer allows people with even the most limited communication skills to carry on a simple conversation. Ideal for a number of different purposes including sequencing, testing, directions, multiplication, memorization, medical instructions, storytelling and sing-a long’s.
Now available in five different models.
Size: 11” x 4 ½” x 2”. Requires 4 AA batteries

How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture.
If a child is having problems with communicating and trying to express themselves this piece of equipment is useful to do this. It has a fun look about it and it makes you want to touch it because of the soft gel pad that it has. We used it to make pancakes in class one day to make the beater work to mix the mixture. This shows that the child would be able to interact with people more and other people knowing what the child is needing or wants.