Assistive Technology, Reaction Paper Example

The chapter argues that the technological advancements have created real potential of improving the academic performance of children with different types of disabilities whether physical or learning. Many of these solutions require only slight modifications to widely used computing equipments such as replacing mouse with joystick or touch-screen monitors for those with mobility disabilities. Similarly, some solutions can be implemented immediately by over-the-counter products such as voice-recognition software and speech synthesizers. The chapter also mentions research studies that indicate that the technology does improve the academic performance of test subjects with learning or physical disabilities.

This chapter is quite informative as it mentions various technologies I didn’t know about. It also points out a great fact that the long term success of the solutions can only be assured if they are utilized by the subjects on a regular basis in their daily lives. By reading the article, I also realized how bureaucratic culture could prevent the academic institutions from reaping the benefits of implementing the solutions. These technological solutions should also be managed like any other project which means they should be monitored and evaluated from time to time and modified when needed.

But I believe that it is not sufficient that technology already exists. The technology also needs to be commercially feasible on a wide scale. What can be done through technologically is different from what is actually done because the producers of technology care about the commercial potential. Thus, the government could step in to provide subsidy to the manufacturers or schools could join hands to increase demand to a level where the manufacturers are encouraged to further improve their products.

This chapter also mirrored my opinion that any solution would require active feedback and participation by those for whom it is being devised, in order to be effective.