Biomedical Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
who specialize in assistive technologies devote their attention to devices that
have relatively large markets (wheelchairs, lifts, walkers, etc.) with the re-
sult that there is a paucity of companies that design technologies or devices
that can be tailored to individual needs, and address some of the most basic
needs of disabled people.
Apart from these “physical” barriers, a major impediment to disabled peo-
ple being able to participate in society comes from a general lack of knowledge
or understanding of disability issues. All too frequently, the able-bodied un-
derestimate the contributions to society that people with a disability can,
and more importantly, want to make. This assumption does not necessarily
stem from a lack of good will but from inaccurate or ill-informed perceptions.
Indeed, these pervasive misconceptions have been shown to extend to the
workplace. Potential employers, for example, tend to focus on the perceived
risks and necessary accommodations in hiring those with disabilities, and do
not appreciate the benefits that might accrue from having such motivated
individuals working for them.
There is no doubt that perceptions can change through direct experience.
Therefore, any program that can provide opportunities for extensive interac-
tion between those with disabilities and those who will take a leadership role
in shaping society has the potential to be truly transformative.
7.3 The CanAssist Model and History
CanAssist was founded just over 10 years ago at the University of Victoria
in BC, Canada (originally, as the University of Victoria Assistive Technology
Team (UVATT)). The original concept was to harness resources both within
the university and in the greater community to address the unmet techno-
logical needs of those with disabilities. CanAssist was conceptualized as an
organization that, given the extensive expertise and facilities available, would
develop highly customized devices on an individualized basis to improve the
quality of life of users. From the onset, a key imperative was that CanAssist
would be a service-based organization, in that projects would only be un-
dertaken in response to requests from the community. However, in delivering
its services, CanAssist would utilize both educational and research resources
and methods. This still holds true.
CanAssist started with a single project in 1999. For the first 5 years, all of
its activities were undertaken on a volunteer basis by university staff, faculty,
and members of the community. However, in order to provide reliable ser-
vice and preserve continuity, permanent staff were eventually hired. Through
donations from corporations and other philanthropists, CanAssist was able to
hire seven full-time staff in 2005. Today, CanAssist has over 30 staff members
(excluding faculty), including 17 engineers and computer scientists. In 2007,
the university Senate and Board of Governors gave formal recognition to
