Assistive Technology

Examination of problems in designing and providing assistive devices to individuals with disabilities, to assist mobility, communication, positioning, and environmental control and daily living. Processes discussed include needs assessment, search for available devices, resources available, and creative problem solving. Students work with materials commonly used to create individualized devices, in cross-disciplinary teams on a design for a specific user or group. Problems of funding and delivery of devices also explored. For students in occupational therapy and engineering, and for educators, speech/language pathologists, and rehabilitation personnel.