Technology and Disability - Volume 26, issue 2-3

Authors: Cassinelli, A. | Sampaio, E. | Joffily, S.B. | Lima, H.R.S. | Gusmão, B.P.G.R.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: Background: Individuals lacking or having impaired vision face serious difficulties during autonomous locomotion. Sensory substitution devices can contribute to alleviate such difficulties, significantly (and measurably) reducing anxiety. Objective: The present paper evaluates a device – the Tactile Radar (TR) – that can detect obstacles at a certain distance from the user and generate meaningful and unobtrusive tactile stimuli. Methods: We evaluate the impact of its use on the degree of anxiety that autonomous locomotion usually trigger on people who are blind. Results: Decreased anxiety as well as increased sense of safety and independence was …observed on the tested subjects, through subjective (semi-structured interviews) and objective assessments (STAI inventories). Conclusions: This device seems promising. More experimentation is needed to evaluate the capacity of the TR to enhance indoor localization and body placement with respect to walls and obstacles, as well as evaluation of the device in real life situations including outdoors. Last but not least, we need to consider ways of moving from a prototyping to a real production phase – of an affordable yet reliable device that can reach as soon as possible the interested population. Show more

Keywords: Anxiety, feeling of security and independence, visual deprivation, sensory substitution device, autonomous locomotion

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-140414

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 26, no. 2-3, pp. 161-170, 2014

Authors: Hoppenbrouwers, Grace | Stewart, Hugh | Kernot, Jocelyn

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: Background: Use of switches enables children with physical and multiple disabilities to mobilise, communicate, play and participate in schooling. A comprehensive and psychometrically sound assessment tool is important to ensure children receive appropriate technology and achieve the best possible outcomes. Objective: To systematically review assistive technology assessment tools which assess the switch use of children with physical and multiple disabilities. Methods: The review was conducted according to PRISMA guidelines. An electronic search of ten databases was performed in February 2013. Assessment tools were included if they met three key eligibility criteria: 1) the tool assessed the …assistive technology needs of children with physical or multiple disabilities, 2) the tool could be applied to assess children’s ability to use a switch, 3) the article was published in English in a peer reviewed journal. Results: From eight articles included, six different assessment tools were reviewed for psychometric properties and compared to recommended content from background literature. From this review, it was found there are insufficient validated and reliable assessment tools to assess the switch use of children. Conclusions: A comprehensive and sensitive tool, with adequate psychometric testing, is required to assess the switch use of children with physical and multiple disabilities. Show more

Keywords: Children, multiple disabilities, assistive technology, assessment, switch

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-140405

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 26, no. 2-3, pp. 171-185, 2014

Authors: van Hooren, S.

Article Type: Book Review

DOI: 10.3233/TAD-140415

Citation: Technology and Disability, vol. 26, no. 2-3, pp. 187-188, 2014