Introduction to AT solutions module (AC52052)
Explore the broad range of assistive technology hardware and software that can enable the optimum working medium for those who you support.
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AC52052
You will be introduced to a range of assistive technology (AT) hardware and software and the course team will contextualise the use of these technologies to address or support function for people with specific physical disabilities and learning difficulties.
This module makes use of a number of invited guests who are national experts in various aspects of assistive technology, there are multiple opportunities for you to ask questions of the course team and the invited guests.
Where students are expert in specific elements or types of assistive technology, there will be opportunities for you to exemplify your learning to the rest of the group.
Over this 12 week course you will have the opportunity to develop your understand of the range of assistive technology hardware and software available to provide the ‘optimum working medium’ so that individuals can increase function, expand what they can do independently or increase the rate at which they can work.
This module builds knowledge ahead of AC51045 (Mainstream and Specialist AT) and AC51044 (Assessment for Assistive Technology).
The module includes recent UoD research findings, inclusive of leading edge AAC (Alternative Augmentative Communication) and assistive technology projects.
Teaching methods
Note that content is indicative and teaching order may change based on various factors.
Week 1 (week 23) Intro and module overview |
Models of disability, inclusive of introducing ‘user profiles’. HCI (Human Computer Interaction) / UX (user experience) introduction. Definitions of assistive technology and justification for selection. |
Week 2 (week 24) Mounting, posture and physical requirements |
Mainstream: Occupational health, basic DSE (display screen evaluation) Guest Seminar Postural Management, physical adaptations, specialist equipment, complex mounting systems, posture and physical requirements. |
Week 3 (week 25) Computer access week 1 |
Overview of computer access using a variety of methods, inclusive of switching and eye-gaze. Supported by Q&A / panel discussion with presenters. |
Week 4 (week 26) Computer access week 2 |
Part 2 of computer access |
Week 5 (week 27) Computer access week 3, physical access equipment |
Computer access hardware, inc. alternative pointing devices, keyboards, voice input, direct access / touchscreens, output, text to speech, reading support and braille output. Groupwork on suggested AT to trial with example users, supported by pre-supplied user profiles activity. |
Week 6 (week 28) Technology for sensory learners / visual impairment support |
Guest seminar, supporting students who are blind or visually impaired, plans to cover various tech such as screen readers, magnifiers, various apps etc. Visual impairment support includes: zoom functions, screen readers (e.g. NVDA, JAWS), visualisers, CCTV, audio description, braille output devices Technology to support sensory learners. Introduction to curriculum levels. Technology for pre-intentional learners. Technology for intentional communication |
Week 7 (week 29) Technology to support people who are deaf or hard of hearing |
To include: Amplification, hearing aids, implants, captioning, BSL. |
Week 8 (week 30) Assistive technology software, week 1 |
AT software, focussing on software found in mainstream contexts, inc. ‘free’ software. Commercial AT software suited to use in mainstream contexts. |
Week 9 (week 31) Assistive technology software, week 2 |
AT software, focussing on software found in specialist contexts. Guest seminar(s) from invited AT suppliers. |
Week 10 (week 32) Environmental control systems / Alternative Augmentative Communication intro |
Mainstream smart home / home automation market ECS, inc. Voice assistants. Supported by guest seminars. General Intro to AAC. General introduction to AAC, devices available from various suppliers. |
Week 11 (week 33) Alternative Augmentative Communication Week 2 |
We would like to introduce our students to the design considerations that have gone into the different types of AAC devices. Supported by guest seminars. Background theory and research papers from Dundee AAC research group. |
Week 12 (week 34) Environmental control systems / Alternative Augmentative Communication Week 3 |
Considering both the specialist ‘age and disability’ badged environmental control systems and smart home / home automation type equipment. Development of AAC vocabularies. Supported by guest seminars. |
Assessments and Coursework
Coursework counts for 100% of the final module mark.
Assignments
Marking criteria are provided on My Dundee for all assignments so that you know what we are looking for when we are marking your coursework.
Please ensure that you refer to these when completing assignments.
There are two assignments for this module.
Resource list
All course material is available on My Dundee.
This includes copies of lecture materials, practical exercises and assignments.
The reading list for this module can be accessed from My Dundee, and provides recommended materials for completing the module.
Courses
This module is available on following courses: