Assistive Technology

Definition of Assistive technology.


Cook & Hussey (2000, p5), defined assistive technology as "Any item, piece of equipment or product system that is used to increase or improve functional capability of individuals with disability”.




Describe one piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial. Provide information on size, cost and functions.

One piece of equipment introduced in the assistive technology tutorial is the Matias 508 One Handed Keyboard: it is a standard keyboard that allows both one handed and two handed touch typing. Holding the space bar accesses the alternate keys that mirror the other half of a standard keyboard.
It has USB connections for both the MAC and PC.

Matias 508 One Handed Keyboard cost range lies between $300 - $1200 (NZD).




How does your chosen piece of equipment increased functional capacity for the user? Provide examples here from the tutorial and lecture.


Considering people that has suffered from a stoke and has weakness or paralysis in one part of their body, Matias 508 One Handed Keyboard will enable them touch type, increasing speed and reducing fatigue. This is because the hand does not have to travel over a large area when typing.