Task Seven: Assistive Technology

The definition explained in the artiocle “Assistive Technologies: Principles and Practice” of Assistive Technology is:
“Any item, piece of equipment or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized that is used to increase or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities”

Trevor of Star Mobility’s definition was:
Hard or soft ware used to increase, maintain or improve a person’s disability by the use of technology to improve:

- Independent
- Communication
- Leisure ‘entertainment
- Education
- Employment
- Daily living and
- Mobility

Cook, A.M., & Hussey, S.M. (2000). Assistive technologies: principles and practice. St Louis: Mosby


One piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial was the
Wave Switch Tract Ball.


Cost is $461.25 (including gst)

Specifically designed for users with limited hand control, motor skill difficulty, hand-eye coordination challenges, and/or involuntary muscle spasms, Wave features an oversized trackball with free-running silky smooth movement that requires only the slightest touch. Colour coded buttons allow for left & right clicks as well as drag lock, giving users the ability to "lock on" to a screen object so it can be dragged without continuously pressing a button. www.star-educational.co.nz
For users the tract ball assists a person to get through larger amounts of work helping them to be more efficient and productive.