'If you leave it with me i will work it out': The benefits and challenges in using mainstream devices as assistive technologies for people with disabilities

Denise Wood; Parimala Raghavendra; Janelle Sampson; Sheila Scutter; Carolyn Bilsborow; Caitlin Fry; Margie Charlesworth; Ian Kirk

doi:10.7790/tja.v63i2.419

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'If you leave it with me i will work it out': The benefits and challenges in using mainstream devices as assistive technologies for people with disabilities

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'If you leave it with me i will work it out': The benefits and challenges in using mainstream devices as assistive technologies for people with disabilities

Denise Wood, Parimala Raghavendra, Janelle Sampson, Sheila Scutter, Carolyn Bilsborow, Caitlin Fry, Margie Charlesworth and Ian Kirk

Telecommunications Journal of Australia, Vol.63(2), pp.25.1-25.17

2013

DOI: https://doi.org/10.7790/tja.v63i2.419

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Abstract

The increasing availability of mobile technologies incorporating universal design features has provided a more affordable assistive technology solution for many people with disabilities. However, several authors caution that there are possible negative by-products associated with this trend, highlighting the need for further research into the benefits and challenges of using mainstream devices as assistive technologies. This paper reports the interim findings of a project involving the trial of iPads with two participant co-researchers who have physical disabilities and ten residents of a high support institution for people with disabilities. The project methodology involved: 1) evaluation of participants' use of the devices; 2) pre- and post-intervention testing using goal attainment scaling; 3) training and ongoing support in use of the device; and 4) analysis of user satisfaction with the iPad using a modified version of the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology instrument. The study contributes to the growing evidence-base exploring the potential of mainstream mobile devices as assistive technologies and highlights areas for further research and development.

Details

Title: 'If you leave it with me i will work it out': The benefits and challenges in using mainstream devices as assistive technologies for people with disabilities
Authors: Denise Wood (Author) - University of South Australia
Parimala Raghavendra (Author) - Flinders University
Janelle Sampson (Author) - University of South Australia
Sheila Scutter (Author) - University of South Australia
Carolyn Bilsborow (Author) - University of South Australia
Caitlin Fry (Author) - University of South Australia
Margie Charlesworth (Author) - Women with Disabilities South Australia
Ian Kirk (Author)
Publication details: Telecommunications Journal of Australia, Vol.63(2), pp.25.1-25.17
Publisher: Swinburne University of Technology
Date published: 2013
DOI: 10.7790/tja.v63i2.419
ISSN: 0040-2486
Organisation Unit: Office of the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Academic); University of the Sunshine Coast, Queensland
Language: English
Record Identifier: 99450891002621
Output Type: Journal article

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