How to Research Assistive Technology on the Internet

Assistive technology is any device or product that enables an individual with a disability to perform a task more easily. While medical professionals and disabled persons consider mobility devices such as wheelchairs as assistive technologies, the term more commonly refers to hardware, software and computer peripherals such as special keyboards or mouses designed to assist those with impaired vision or hearing to use computers. It also refers to technologies used by students with disabilities in the classroom. Internet provides substantial resources to find and utilize assistive technologies in every day life.

Instructions

• 1

  Start researching by looking for specific information on assistive technology. If you want to train your employees on the use of assistive technology, go to sites and online courses geared towards training. If you are a parent or teacher looking to learn how assistive technology helps kids or students, go to a site geared towards assistive technology for children. For personal use of assistive technology, go to a government site for programs that help you gain access to assistive technology.

• 2

  Visit the website for California State University Northridge's Center on Disabilities. This center offers training programs and workshops online. Policy makers involved in assistive technology, such as school principals or superintendents or company technology directors may benefit from these training programs.

• 3

  Go to the Assistive Technology Training Online Project at the University of Buffalo's website. This offers information on a range of assistive technologies for elementary school children, and is a resource for both parents and educators.

• 4

  Visit state and local websites, such as the South Carolina Assistive Technology Program, for information on access to equipment in your area and new innovations. Your local library may also have information on local assistive technology resources on its website.

• 5

  Visit the website for the National Center on Accessible Information Technology in Education. This site offers an AccessIT Knowledge Base. You can search the knowledge base for information on a particular aspect of assistive technology or browse the index. This site also has training and videos archived online.