What is Assistive Technology
Assistive technology refers to a wide range of devices, services, strategies, and practices that are used to decrease the problems people with a disability have with doing daily tasks and leisure activities (Cook & Hussey, 2000)
In our tutorial we tried lots of different pieces of assistive technology. One device that I really liked was the 'Matias 508 One Handed Keyboard'.
This keyboard is a standard desktop keyboard that will allow both one-handed and two-handed touch-typing. Holding the space bar accesses the alternate keys that mirror the other half of a standard keyboard. The one handed typing capability can be switched on or off by the user, therefore can be used two handed as a standard keyboard. It just requires a USB connection for PC and Mac operating systems. This keyboard costs $280 from Star-Educational.
More information and pictures of this device can be looked at on:
http://www.star-educational.co.nz/view_details.php?detail=true&cat=35&subcat=&id=97
If a person has limited hand function the one handed keyboard gives them the option of only having to use their better hand and typing using just one side of the keyboard. This will decrease the fatigue that the person experiences as they dont have to move their hand as far. It also increases the speed of typing as the hand doesn't have to move as far around the keyboard.
References
Cook, A.M., & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby.
'Star Educational'. (n.d.). Matias 508 One or Two Handed Keyboard. Retrieved on 21 May, 2009, from http://www.star-educational.co.nz/view_details.php?detail=true&cat=35&subcat=&id=97
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