Focus on functional ability.
Assistive Technology as an intervention method begins with the person, their abilities and the environment in which they live, learn and work.
“Any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially, modified or customised, that is used to increase or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities.”
This definition describes the concept of Assistive Technology because it places the emphasis on the functional abilities of people with disabilities.
Functionality is therefore the measure of success of Assistive Technology applications. The emphasis is placed on the individual, and no two applications are exactly alike because each person’s needs and skills, their activities and the environment in which these activities take place are unique. Assessment is the first step of Assistive Technology as an intervention method.
Each person is assessed functionally, cognitively and physically in order to define intervention goals and design the appropriate intervention programme. Assessment can use both traditional methods and technological environments specifically designed to estimate the person’s level of ability.
Solutions grounded in science and proven in practice
Our solutions are developed with the participation of scientists and Special Education professionals and respond to the real needs of children, adolescents and adults. We do not recommend theoretical or untested approaches. The solutions we select have been applied in practice, evaluated and shown to work effectively. This experience is further strengthened by our participation as experts in national and European initiatives.