Emphasis is on developing awareness ofthe diversity of assistive technology currently available for individuals with disabilities. Participants in this course will engage in independentlearning activities and will receive information that will enable them to gather information about assistivetechnology devices, companies and related services.
Assistive technology can be an invaluable componentin the lives of individuals with disabilities.
For assistive technology to become an integralpart of the lives of individuals with disabilities, service providers must, at the very least, develop anawareness of the potential of this technology. The process for the successful acquisitionof selected assistive technology devices is described providing information on appropriate procedures,available resources, effective language and the appeal process. Professionals responsible forproviding assistive technology services, caregivers of individuals with disabilities and consumersof assistive technology must be familiar with various funding procedures to acquire assistive technologydevices. Successful acquisition and implementation of assistive technology devices andservices frequently depend on the funding sources available to the consumer and supporting agency. Emphasisis placed on the life skill area of communication, but will show their use in most life skill areas.