Specialist and mainstream AT solutions module (AC51045)

In this module, you will explore both specialist and mainstream Assistive Technology (AT). You’ll get hands-on experience with current tools and learn how to choose the right solutions for different situations. 

You will learn from research carried out at the University of Dundee, along with input from guest experts. This will help you understand how AT can best support users.

What you will learn

In this module, you will:

• explore mainstream and specialist Assistive Technology (AT)
• use sector-standard hardware and software to gain hands-on experience of AT
• understand the issues AT users face and the tools that can improve their access now and in the future
• cover voice-operated interfaces, mainstream mobile devices, and screen-reading software
• identify effective use of voice output communication aids (VOCA) and communication software

By the end of this module, you will be able to:

• discuss the benefits and limitations of Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
• choose between mainstream and specialist AT - or combine elements of both - to best meet users’ requirements

Assignments / assessment

• Case study (50%)
  • Discussing your working or placement context and justifying why a mainstream solution was chosen over a specialist alternative, or vice versa
• Essay (50%)
  • Critical analysis of an assistive technology’s strengths or weaknesses
• This module does not have a final exam

Teaching methods / timetable

• Weekly lectures and tutorials
  • presentations and discussions with developers, decision makers, and expert practitioners who contribute as guest lecturers

Example weekly outline

• Week 1 – Inclusive UDL theory and accessibility resources
  • Examples of mainstream devices used as AT
• Week 2 – Mainstream operating-system and software accessibility (desktop and mobile)
  • Apps for access and learning
• Week 3 – Adapting mainstream devices for use as AT
  • Adapting iOS, Windows, and Office 365 using AT
  • Using tablets as the basis of AAC systems (sector examples)
  • Using mainstream laptops with specialist AT software such as Grid or Clicker
  • Mobile phones equipped with switch interfaces
• Week 4 – Corporate approaches to accessibility (Google, Microsoft, Apple)
  • Mainstream devices for AT: a case study
• Week 5 – Blending mainstream and specialist elements into a unified system
  • University of Dundee research overview and considering the future of AT
  • Student examples of adapting mainstream devices, including blended systems