Assistive Technology - Essay Example

Introduction Assistive technology refers to the technology used by disabled persons to enable them overcome the difficulties they experience. This technology includes devices such as wheelchairs and walkers, which aid in mobility (Pruski & Knops, 2005). Hardware and software used to access computers and information technologies by disabled people also form part of assistive technology. For instance, persons whose hands have limited function can use keyboards that have large keys or a specific mouse while operating computers.

Blind people can use software that generates text in a computer screen from a voice generated by the computer. In addition, people who do not see properly can use software that will enlarge the content in the screen of the computer; while deaf persons may use a text telephone (Solarz, 1990). Research Methods, procedures, and instruments. Data in this research will be collected using the interview method, by asking the participants questions regarding the study topic. Participants in the study will include beneficiaries of assistive technology; people faced with disabilities to the extent that they wholly depend on assistive technology.

Data will also be collected from families of disabled persons, and teachers who use assistive technology while dealing with disabled students. . Previously documented sources of data can also be reliable as they include empirical findings on research already conducted on the topic. The data collection tools, methods, and instruments will be pretested to determine their validity and reliability. Findings advantages Assistive technology enhances learning in people with disabilities, as it helps them to communicate with ease, and receive instructions in a manner they can easily comprehend.

When disabled persons use this technology, they become independent because they can move and play without seeking assistance from other persons (Blackstone, 1990). Therefore, the adoption of assistive technology promotes learning in children with disabilities. Pruski & Knops (2005) assert that teachers and caregivers find the technology useful while dealing with the disabled children, as it speeds up learning in children and enables them to be at the same level with other children. The use of the technology makes people with disabilities to be more functional than they could be without the technology.

As a result, the technology turns out to be useful in early interventions to model the disabled persons. Assistive technology enables the disabled persons to access recreation facilities and entertainment. Resulting from the technology, persons with disabilities become rehabilitated; they can be employed in organizations because computers enable them to have the ability to work (Jonge et. al, 2006). Teachers apply different styles of learning to instruct students while using assistive technology.

Instructions based on the use of computers improve motivation of the students and gives immediate feedback. Once disabled