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Adaptive Computing and IT Overview. George Gober Assistive Technology Associate Research Department Methodist Rehabilitation Center. Objectives. Define Assistive Technology (AT) and associated terminology Why should IT care about AT? Introduce concepts of Adaptive Computing (AC)
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Adaptive Computing and ITOverview George Gober Assistive Technology Associate Research Department Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Objectives • Define Assistive Technology (AT) and associated terminology • Why should IT care about AT? • Introduce concepts of Adaptive Computing (AC) • Identify categories of AC with examples of equipment, hardware, and software • Introduce training opportunities and certifications • Provide info regarding AC resources • A vision of the future of AC Methodist Rehabilitation Center
What is Assistive Technology? The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act IDEA ‘97 (Public Law 105-17) mandates the provision of assistive technology and offers clear definitions of assistive technology devices and services. Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Definition Assistive Technology Devices Any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of children with disabilities. (Section 300.5) Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Why should IT care about AT? • 508 Guidelines (www.section508.gov) • ADA (www.ada.gov) • Hospitals and Rehab Centers • School Systems • Tech Support • Private Business
Definition Adaptive Computing Part A: Using alternative hardware and software to adapt general computers so that they are usable by people with disabilities. Part B: Using computers as compensatory or therapeutic tools. Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Adaptive Computing Elements • Adaptive Input • Adaptive Output • Ergonomics • Accessibility Features • Shortcuts Methodist Rehabilitation Center
Adaptive Input: Keyboards • Enhanced Vision • Alternate Style • Reduced Size • Increased Size • One Handed • Programmable
Adaptive Input: Mice • Ergonomic • Trackballs • Joysticks • Switched • Mouth Operated
Adaptive Input: Physical Devices • Orthotics • Hand Stick • Mouth Stick • Head Stick • Special
Adaptive Input: Alternative • Voice Recognition • Head Operated • Eye Gaze
Adaptive Input: Switches & Mounts • Mounting Options • Table • Beds • Wheelchairs • Switches • Size • Location • Type
Adaptive Input: Software • On Screen Keyboards • Mouse Emulators • Word Prediction • Voice Recognition
Adaptive Output: Visual • Large Monitors • Magnification
Adaptive Output: Alternative • Screen Reading • Refreshable Braille Displays • Braille Embosser • Scan and Read
Ergonomics • Mice • Keyboards • Display Height • Workstation • Wrist Support
Accessibility Features • Sticky Keys • SnapTo • High Contrast • Enlarged Cursors
Shortcuts • Keyboard Shortcuts • Programmable Keys • Abbreviation Expansions
Adaptive Computing: Resources • InfoGrip (www.infogrip.com) • Abledata (www.abledata.com) • AssistTech (www.assisttech.info)
AT Certifications • Assistive Technology assessments typically performed by a PT or an OT • RESNA : • Assistive Technology Practitioner (ATP) • Assistive Technology Supplier (ATS) • ATACP (online from CalState Northridge) • Assistive Technology Applications Certificate Program • Certificate in Assistive Technology • Graduate programs in BioMedical Engineering
The Future of Adaptive Computing • Universal Design • Moore’s Law • Convergent Technologies • Emerging Technologies • Neuroprosthetics