Resources in Japan
Organizations
- Access Research Group
The Access Research Group was started in April,1992. The main goal is to develop a better technological interface for those that have disabilities. We think that the goal is also instructive in studying interface for people without handicaps.
- Japan Assistive Products Association
In Japanese. JASPA is part of the Japan Wellness and Welfare Industry Association, a cross-industry organization aiming to provide outstanding health-care-related equipment and living aids (http://www.jaspa.gr.jp//JWA/english/index.html. JASPA focuses specifically on Japanese companies that manufacture and/or sell assistive technology.
- Japan Council on Disability
This site is in Japanese.
- Japan Guide Dog Association
The Japan Guide Dog Association (JGDA) raises and trains guide dogs for the visually impaired. It has two training centers; one in Yokohama, Kanagawa Prefecture, and the other in Sendai, Miyagi Prefecture.
- Kyoho-Hin Foundation
The Kyoyo-Hin (Accessible Design) Foundation promotes the development of accessible design products or services that can be used by people with disability and the elderly.
- National Institute of Special Education (Japan)
This institute, funded by the Japanese government, conducts research and provides training in special education.
- National Rehabilitation Center for the Disabled
The Center provides rehabilitation services and conducts research on new rehabilitative techniques. Also lists other rehabilitation training centers in Asia.
- Portal Site for Special Needs Education
This site is managed by the Telecommunications Advancement Organization of Japan (a Japanese semi-governmental organization authorized by the Ministry of Public Management, Home Affairs, Posts and Telecommunications) On this site, information is offered from various kinds of fields such as education, welfare, labor, sanitation and medical service not only in Japan but foreign countries. It supports whoever needs any news and knowledge of special needs education.
- Rehabilitation Engineering Society of Japan
RESJA is concerned with the application of science and technology in the field of rehabilitation. Its membership includes rehabilitation professionals (e.g., engineers, medical staffs, teachers for handicapped children), providers (manufacturers and dealers), and consumers (people with disabiities). RESJA promotes mutual understanding among these groups so that they comprehend and serve the actual needs of people with disability so that they receive the maximum benefit from the application of rehabilitation engineering.
- Sensui - Information Resources for People with Disabilities
A great site by our friend Iwao Kobayashi, Ph.D.! The site has a very good page with links to disability resources throughout Japan and another page with resources from the rest of the world.
