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Assistive Technology Research Paper

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Assistive Technology Lab: Need, importance and relevance in promoting functional equivalence and welfare for persons with disabilities in educational institutes in developing countries
Abstract
The present study is aimed at understanding the need and importance of Assistive Technology (AT) Laboratory in universities and colleges providing education in the area of disability studies, especially in developing countries like India. The study adopted a mixed research method to collect data from 30 participants, and the analysis reveals that the AT lab promotes access to available devices, creates awareness and promotes welfare of PwDs and CwDs, paving the way for their inclusion and functional equivalence.
Key words: Assistive Technology, Assistive …show more content…

The following uses of AT laboratory came into view when the data collected and the suggestions given by respondents were carefully analyzed.
The following range of services provided to PwDs/ CwDs through the At Lab are as following:
 Availability of services regarding usage, handling and management of assistive devices
 Training services for parents, CwID, PwID, parents, family, teachers, rehabilitation professionals, therapists
 Awareness generation regarding disabilities, their nature, causes and prevention measures impact on the lives of PwDs/ CwDs through the usage of posters, pamphlets, charts, pictures etc displayed within the laboratory.
 Dissemination of information regarding the availability of various assistive devices, assistive services
 The training given in AT labs helps to develop the following skills:
1) Increased awareness regarding impact of various Disabilities on areas like employment, education and daily …show more content…

It acts as a center for specialized training in handling, usage and maintenance of such devices and also can act as a resource center for selling or making such devices available to the target group. It can help to remove misconceptions from the minds of the users and also can be an affordable option for promoting awareness, dissemination of information and bringing technology in the lives of PwDs in developing countries.
Reference
Booklet on Assistive Technology in the workplace for people with disabilities- an initiative by the National Disability coordination officer program. (2014). Australia: Deakin University
Mittler, J.(2007). Assistive Technology and IDEA. In C.Warger (Ed.) Technology Integration- providing access to the curriculum for students with disabilities. Arlington: Technology and Media Division
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