Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
5.3.4 Assistive Technology
The last element of the model is the assistive technology, specifically, the
device and its interface with the user. Various features of the technology are
considered in this element. These include the input required by the person
when using the device, the interface between the device, the person and the
environment, the device processor and the output of the device. Cook and
Polgar [ 2 ] define hard and soft technologies, which refer to the actual device,
in the first instance and the education, training, and other support needed
to use the technology in the latter instance.
The design of an assistive technology system involves consideration of each
of these elements, through a formal or informal evaluation. Cook and Pol-
gar [ 2 ] describe a process to guide the design which involves starting at the
activities that the individual wishes to perform when using the AT. The hu-
man skills and abilities, attitudes toward AT, and level of experience are
considered next. The environments in which the activities are performed are
identified as well as the need to transport the technology among environ-
ments. Once all of these elements and their interaction are considered, then
selection of the actual device is considered. This process underscores the im-
portance of assessing the needs and abilities of the person and the influence
of the environment prior to determining which device is most useful.
5.4 Case Stories: Applying the HAAT Model
CanAssist is a program based at the University of Victoria (BC, Canada)
that is dedicated to developing and providing technologies and services that
increase the quality of life and independence of those with disabilities. In an
approach consistent with the HAAT model framework, all projects under-
taken by CanAssist are in direct response to requests - either directly from
the individual with special needs or from a family member, caregiver, or
health care-professional acting on their behalf. Before a project proceeds, the
client coordinator talks with or preferably meets with the prospective user
(and/or representative) to clearly understand the user's needs and the con-
text of the request. The questions in Table 5.1: illustrate this data collection
process.
ThefirstquestioninTable 5.1: identifies the HAAT model activity to be
performed. Questions 2 and 3 define the HAAT model context, as well as
obtain information about the soft technology supports available. Question 4
begins to consider the assistive technology, especially the relationship between
new and existing devices.
Once the information in Table 5.1: has been collected, a decision is made
as to whether to proceed with the project. At this point, the critical questions
focus on the potential assistive technology in the context of the HAAT model,
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