As families grow, they often experience a transitional period with technology. It can be difficult for parents to adjust to changes in technology at this time, but it doesn’t have to be painful. The Family Information Guide to Helping Technology and Transition planning can help families prepare for these times when their child moves out of one set to another, and from one developmental year to the next. Technology can be a powerful influence on how children developmentally, emotionally, and socially, but it can also be a limiting influence if it is not utilized in the proper way. This guide provides a concise yet complete overview of how families can use technology and what role it should play in their lives.
Technologies
As technologies change and become more complex, there is an increased need for individuals with disabilities to understand their capabilities and limitations with technology. There is a growing need for professionals who can work with individuals and families on technology needs, such as computer software developers, computer specialists, and educators. These professionals can help individuals understand their capabilities, what limitations they may have, and the kind of equipment or services that they require to participate in modern technology.
Families are often very concerned about the limitation of having a disabled family member or friend use a particular technology instrument. There are several situations where disabled individuals can use high-tech gadgets, such as hearing aids, computers, laptops, cellular telephones, television sets, and video game consoles. Many disabled individuals benefit from having these items because of their increased independence, improved communication, increased capabilities, and better-adapted lifestyles. But just as technology has its place in everyday life, so too do individuals with disabilities need access to technology that enables them to develop their independent living skills and prepare for a bright future.
Technology can also make a difference in independent living skills and prepare for a transition to independent living. In the past, many disabled individuals were forced to adapt their lifestyles to their physical limitations, which in turn, made them dependent on others. But with the advent of state-of-the-art and helpful technologies, individuals with disabilities can do things on their own and be able to live an enriching life.
Impairments
For those with vision impairments, there are several ways that technology can help. First, individuals with vision impairments can use computers, computer programs, and other items that can assist them in performing everyday activities. In order to perform everyday tasks such as grooming, dressing, shopping, preparing meals, and driving, individuals with vision impairments need to be capable of using at least a basic level of computer abilities. In addition to using computers and other items, an individual with vision impairments can also benefit from using non-computerized items that aid in daily living. For instance, a family member can help to hold down the baby or feed the child by using an electric razor to shave or apply make-up. Instead of using assistance such as a family member, individuals with vision impairments can accomplish these tasks without additional disabilities.
As technology advances, it is essential that transitional planning be done in order to ensure that individuals with disabilities can live an enriched life. The reason for this transition planning is twofold. First, research has shown that when individuals with disabilities begin utilizing state-of-the-art products, they begin to gain back a sense of self-worth and confidence. Second, when individuals with disabilities begin utilizing state-of-the-art products and services, it takes them longer to transition back to traditional life than it would if they were able to utilize the previously accessible products and services immediately. Therefore, transitional planning must involve researching state-of-the-art technology and implementing it through a well-designed product system.
Another example of implementing assistive technology and providing a product system that allows individuals with disabilities to thrive is through helping students with disabilities gain access to higher education. Many students with disabilities have difficulty affording higher education because of their limited abilities. Some of these students require more specialized equipment and instruction in order to gain access to higher education. This requires additional funding, increased time commitments, and other needs that are unique to each individual student. Through the research and application of new technologies, a product system can be developed that will allow these students to take advantage of higher education opportunities.
There is an increased need for professionals in our society who possess the skills and knowledge necessary to deal with everyday living conditions. This demand is being met by a variety of professions that are providing help to people of all ages with special needs. As technology advances, there is a constant need for professionals in every field and every trade. This is why you will find qualified professionals in every field related to the arts, business, computers, medicine, nursing, social services, and technology – helping assist students with disabilities to get the education and training they need to succeed in today’s high-tech, low-tech world.
