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Assistive Technology Basics

Assistive Technology Basics

Author: Tiffany Wilson

hands typing on a assistive communication device

Assistive Technology (AT) definition:
Any item, piece of equipment, or product system that aids individuals by increasing, maintaining, or improving their functional independence. 1

Understanding the Full AT Spectrum

Assistive technology (AT) plays a vital role in creating inclusive and accessible environments for individuals with disabilities. This guide provides a user-friendly framework for understanding the diverse landscape of AT and its practical applications.

AT encompasses a wide range of tools and technologies, from simple modifications to complex digital systems. To navigate this variety, we categorize AT into three key areas: levels, settings, and domains.

This article introduces the "3, 3, 10" framework (three levels, three settings, and ten domains), a mnemonic device developed by the author, to simplify these categories and equip you to effectively advocate for comprehensive AT solutions. 2

Levels (3)

Tech levels describe the complexity and sophistication of AT, similar to technology in general:

  1. Low Tech:
    Simple, often inexpensive, and easy to use.
    Examples: Printed symbols, pencil grips, and colored paper.
  2. Mid Tech:
    More advanced than low tech and less complex than high tech.
    Examples: Portable electronic organizers, voice recorders, and electronic magnifiers.
  3. High Tech:
    The most complex, advanced solutions available.
    Examples: Tablet based communication systems, screen readers, environmental control systems.

AT doesn't always mean high tech or expensive:
The median one time cost of employment accommodations for individuals with disabilities is $300 3

Settings (3)

Beyond tech levels, AT is categorized by its primary application setting. Understanding these settings helps AT specialists identify the primary functions of specific solutions, ensuring they meet individual needs across various environments. Importantly, this categorization is not static; a device may be primarily used in one setting, such as work, but can also be adapted for use in other environments, like home or school, based on the user’s evolving needs.

  1. Education: AT used in learning environments to facilitate access to education.
  2. Employment: AT used in work settings to support job performance.
  3. Community or Independent Living: AT used in daily activities, community participation, and living independently.

Domains of Assistive Technology (10)

To provide a clearer understanding of AT’s diverse applications, these technologies are grouped into ten domains. Each domain addresses specific functional needs, ensuring that individuals receive customized support.

  1. Computers and Related: Facilitate computer and Information Communication Technology access.
    Examples: Modified keyboards, touch screens, accessibility software.
  2. Daily Living (Independent Living): Enhance independence in daily activities like bathing and eating.
    Examples: Adapted utensils, zipper pullers, smart assistants.
  3. Environmental Adaptations (or Control): Modify the built environment to improve accessibility and reduce barriers.
    Examples: Smart environmental controls, remote door switches.
  4. Hearing: Provide access to auditory information for those with hearing loss or deafness.
    Examples: Assisted listening devices, alerting systems, and automated captioning.
    Though titled "Hearing," this category focuses on more than just sound amplification.
    It ensures equitable access for all, including those who may not rely on auditory methods,
    such as individuals who are Deaf or DeafBlind.
  5. Learning, Cognition, and Developmental: Support cognitive and developmental needs across ages and environments.
    Examples: Visual timers, adapted toys for motor skill development, and text to speech software.
  6. Mobility, Seating, and Positioning: Address mobility disabilities and promote safe seating.
    Examples: Wheelchairs, orthotics, seating aids.
  7. Recreation, Sports, and Leisure: Assist participation in recreational activities.
    Examples: Adaptive sports equipment, accessible beach chairs.
  8. Speech Communication: Aid communication for individuals with speech disabilities.
    Examples: Speech generating devices, communication boards.
  9. Vehicle Modification: Enable vehicle access and transportation safety.
    Examples: Vehicle ramps, adaptive vehicle controls.
  10. Vision: Improve access and participation for individuals who are blind or have low vision.
    Examples: Magnifiers, screen reading software, Braille displays.

Conclusion

In a world where AT is continuously evolving, this guide aims to inspire awareness rather than enforce rigid definitions. Understanding these categories empowers us to create truly inclusive environments. While this article highlights assistive technologies, it is critical to remember that the broader concept of accessibility encompasses the diverse needs of all individuals, regardless of ability.

Ready to expand your accessibility knowledge?

Our article, Accessibility Terms: Understanding the Difference, clarifies key terms and explains how they relate.

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Sources

  1. AT Act of 1998 as amended, 29 USC §3002
  2. The "3-3-10" framework presented in this article is a mnemonic device developed by the author to simplify the understanding of AT categories. This framework is informed by the federal reporting guidelines for state AT programs established by the Center for Assistive Technology Act Data Assistance (CATADA). State AT programs, funded through the U.S. AT Act under Section 4, are required to report environmental settings and domains of AT provided through their programs using categories established by the State Grants for Assistive Technology Program Annual Progress Report (AT APR) and managed by CATADA.
  3. Job Accommodation Network (JAN), U.S. Department of Labor, 'Costs of Accommodations': almost half of accommodations for persons with disabilities incur no cost to employers, with a median one time expenditure of approximately $300. JAN Report.