Assistive Technology

Adaptive Technology (AT) is equipment designed to assist blind or vision-impaired people to read, write or access electronic information.

AT can take many forms. It can be software or hardware-based, utilise mainstream computer technology or be completely stand-alone. The technology generally works on the basis of providing access via:

Closed Circuit Televisions (CCTV's) or Video Magnifiers
Simple magnification devices which assist in reading by enlarging items up to 40 times on a monitor.

Computers with Screen Reading and/or Screen Magnification software
To enable people to write, edit, manage finances and access the Internet.

Scanners
With special software that will read printed material out loud, such as schoolwork, magazines and books.

Braille Displays and Portable Notetaking Devices
To allow access to information when and how it is needed.

Braille overlay and Large print keyboards to help vision-impaired users quickly locate keys.

Other devices designed to meet the literacy and information access needs of blind and vision-impaired people, such as Talking Scientific Calculators, Talking Diary/Address Books, and Talking Dictionaries.

Overview of Services

Our AT Centres have trainers that provide demonstrations and training for a variety of magnification, speech and Braille products that can enhance your computer abilities and independence at home, work and school environments.

RGDAT invites you to see the latest technology in action, observing the ease of use with which AT can be integrated into the home or workplace.

Training and Seminars

RGDAT specialises in delivering hands-on training in AT. Expert instructors work on-on-one or in groups to teach students curriculum developed by RGDAT. The focus is on practical applications of AT.

RGDA offers:

• One-on-one training across the state in our AT Centres in Hobart, Launceston, and Ulverstone.

• Liasion with national and international AT suppliers to provide seminars highlighting the latest innovations in AT.

We also provide an expanded resource network to address issues in the hiring and retraining, retention and advancement of persons with disabilities in the work environment. Employment Assessments and Training in the use the AT in the workplace environment are available on a fee for service basis.

Sales and Service

A wide array of products are for sale through the RGDAT Technology Resource Centres including:

• Screen magnifiers
• Scanners
• Screen readers
• Braille displays and Braille embossers
• Portable notetakers
• Closed-circuit televisions (CCTV’s)

RGDA also offers installation and customisation of AT products.

Assessments & Evaluations

RGDAT AT team evaluates which technology will work best for you by identifying your needs, assessing your skills and determining your goals.

An individual assessment will include:

Identifying difficulties experienced in reading and writing encountered in personal independence needs, school or work productivity and leisure activities, including:

• Reading books or the newspaper;
• Reading financial statements;
• Writing letters

Providing comprehensive trials with appropriate technologies to compensate for these challenges.

Providing handouts, a summary report and funding documentation to support equipment purchase and training.

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