Tutorial seven: Assistive Technology

Provide a definition of Assistive technology: "Any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified of customised that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" Cook & Hussey 2000

Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial:
One piece of equipment I thought was pretty cool was the Go talk 20, it can store up to 20 message buttons (2.8cm square) – 8 seconds each

Five recording levels

14.75 minutes of recording time

105 message capacity

Five “core message” keys – 12 seconds each

Great sound quality

Built-in overlay storage


Faster record and erase

Built-in keyguard

Digital volume control

Built-in handle

Lightweight (650g)

Size 23cm x 30.5cm x 2.86cm (9” x 12” x 1.125”)

Uses 2 x AA batteries

It costs around $380

How does your chosen piece of equipment increase functional capacity for the user?

It allows the person to communicate with others and feel part of things and that they too can have an opinion or an idea. Just simple things like hello how are you for a child who hasnt been able to communicate before could be a huge stepping stone in making friends and boosting self esteem.