Assistive Technology Initiative Office
Assistive technology is technology used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Assistive technology can include mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, as well as hardware, software, and peripherals that assist people with disabilities in accessing computers or other information technologies.
Examples of Assistive Technology
No Tech/Low Tech:
— typically low cost, non-electronic devices that are easy to use
- adapted furniture, tools, or utensils
- raised-line, colored, or grid paper
- bathtub grab bars
- manual communication boards
- large print books
- hand-held magnifiers
- pencil grips
Mid-Tech:
— typically low to moderately priced, battery-operated or "simple" electronic devices that are easy to program and require minimal training
- tape or digital recorders
- electronic dictionaries or organizers
- adapted keyboards
- talking watches
- special lighting
High-Tech:— fairly expensive devices that contain microcomputer components for storage and retrieval of information. They typically require extensive training and to successfully operate.
- talking word processors
- word prediction software
- computer systems
- note-taking devices
- electric wheelchairs
To learn about the Assistive Technology available at Mason
- See ATI Training page - See a listing of assistive technology hardware and software that is available for demonstration and loan (in certain circumstances) from Mason's Kellar Institute for Human disAbilities (KIHd).
Case Studies in Assistive Technology
Selecting these resources will direct you away from the ATI website, as Mason does not support these sites. University of Buffalo, Center for Assistive Technology IBM Human Ability and Accessibility Center
OTHER RESOURCES IN ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Selecting these resources will direct you away from the ATI website, as Mason does not support these sites. American Speech-Language-Hearing Association University of Buffalo, Center for Assistive Technology Accessibility Standards National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)