Computer-Related Assistive Technology: Satisfaction and Experiences Among Users With Disabilities
By Burton, Mary; Nieuwenhuijsen, Els R.; Epstein, Marcy J.; Assistive Technology, Vol. 20, No. 2, pp. 99-106Publication Date: 2008
Study of the use of computer-related assistive technology devices (ATDs) by individuals with disabilities. Computer-related ATDs were grouped as: (a) input devices such as large-key keyboards, mouse, sticky keys, and head- or hand-pointer sticks; (b) output devices such as screen magnifiers; (c) software programs such as Jaws, Kurzweil, or Dragon Naturally Speaking, and (d) other accommodations such as books on compact disc, raised hard drives, and special stools. The study explored the applicability of the Psychosocial Impact of Assistive Devices Scale (PIADS) and the Quebec User Evaluation with Assistive Technology (QUEST) in assessing users’ opinions regarding ATDs, specifically (1) the experiences, particularly in terms of training, funding, and satisfaction, of adults with physical disabilities using computer-related ATDs; (2) the health behaviors and practices of these individuals regarding computer use; and (3) the psychosocial impact of computer-related ATDs on users in terms of adaptability, competence, and self-esteem. Data were collected via telephone interviews with 13 women and 11 men with disabilities, ranging in age from 19 to 71 years, who had experience using one or more ATDs. Study results showed training, particularly in a setting to try out devices, to be an important component for ATD users. Respondents with visual impairments revealed a higher level of adaptability than those without visual impairments. Participants who appeared most aware of risk factors and applied healthy behaviors were those previously diagnosed with repetitive-strain injury. The authors conclude that additional research is needed to develop survey items evaluating the psychosocial impact of ATDs on disabled computer users.
Assistive Products Discussed: KURZWEIL 3000 FOR MACINTOSH
DRAGON NATURALLYSPEAKING
KURZWEIL 3000 FOR WINDOWS
JAWS FOR WINDOWS
PSYCHOSOCIAL IMPACT OF ASSISTIVE DEVICES SCALE (PIADS)
QUEBEC USER EVALUATION OF SATISFACTION WITH ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY (QUEST 2.0)
Published by: Rehabilitation Engineering & Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA) (Website:http://www.resna.org)
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J54871
