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Practitioners need to determine how the disabilities hinder adult learners'
performance before any type of assistive technology is considered. Together
adult learners and practitioners need to understand the functional limitations
learners' exhibit and how these limitations impact their learning, and their
potential or current work and home situations. Assistive technology may be
used alone or in conjunction with other technologies to meet the unique and
varied needs of individual adults. The focus should not be on the device, but
on what the device can do for the learner. There needs to be a good fit.50
Why use technological tools?
- There is a proven track record - the benefits of assistive technology
have been demonstrated through research studies.
- Despite remediation, adults are unable to improve the skill area - the
use of technology doesn't fix the deficit, but helps adults work around
it and build on their skills.
- The persistence of learning problems - adults do not grow out of their
learning problems.
- The potential to increase learner independence and help them perform
tasks on their own.
- It is a portable tool and can help adults function in a variety of
contexts (training, work, home, while traveling).51
"THE 80/20 RULE: Eighty percent of the effective Assistive Technology
solutions for persons with disabilities are simple, low-tech devices. Only
twenty percent of the necessary modifications involve high-tech options." 52
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