Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 2
The Myth of Neutral Technology
Jan Miller Polgar
Abstract
The meaning that assistive technology (AT) holds for the user is
a key determinant of whether the device will be used or abandoned. Two
concepts, stigma and liminality (existing in a state of transition), are used
to frame users' perceptions of the assistive technology they use, as generated
through research projects investigating aspects of assistive technology use.
Implications of the meaning of AT to the design and selection process are
described. Assistive technology that is seen as a tool, as just another way of
achieving a desired activity is much more likely to be assimilated into the
user's daily life. Technology perceived in this manner enables people to share
activities with others and augment their personal abilities. Alternately, tech-
nology can be seen as a visible sign of disability, reinforcing stigma associated
with a disability and the perception of the AT user as existing somewhere be-
tween health and illness. Individuals with this view of technology may avoid
or resist use of technology, resulting in avoidance of meaningful activities and
both social and physical isolation. These findings support the conclusion that
technology is not neutral. Inclusion of users in both the design and selection
process and understanding the meaning that AT use holds are integral to
the development of assistive technology that achieves the desired outcome of
enabling participation in daily life.
Meaning is at least as powerful an influence as skill in determining whether a device
will be incorporated by an individual as a useful tool or discarded as excess baggage
[ 9 ].
Assistive technology (AT) can augment or replace function in many in-
dividuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate in daily activities
in their communities. The functionality of AT can be very appealing to
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