Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 3
Accessible Technology and Models
of Disability
Richard E. Ladner
Abstract In this chapter, we discuss assistive technology from the view of
the consumer. Consumers of assistive technology follow the social model of
disability, that is, persons with disabilities are part of the diversity of life,
not necessarily in need of cure or special assistance. Their identity does not
revolve around being a patient or client, but focuses on their human desires to
work, play, and associate with others. The social model of disability dictates
an empowering approach to assistive technology research and development
where consumers are given the power to configure and even create technology
to suit their own needs and desires. The technology that comes from this
approach is called accessible technology, rather than assistive technology,
emphasizing its role in making human activities more accessible.
3.1 What is Assistive Technology
“Assistive technology” is really a redundant term because, in some sense, all
technology is assistive, making tasks possible or easier to do. Automobiles,
trains, busses, and airplanes are assistive technologies because they make
getting from one location to another easier to do. Telephones assist us to talk
to people over a distance. Computers are very general devices that assist us
with many tasks. In some sense, the whole purpose of technology is to make
tasks possible or easier to do. Nonetheless, the moniker “assistive technology”
has come to mean specialized technology for persons with disabilities. Hear-
ing aids are commonly called assistive listening devices, yet eye-glasses and
contact lenses are not typically called assistive technology. Correctable vision
is not considered to be a disability. Why is it that persons with disabilities
have assistive technology, while the rest of us just have technology?
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