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Understanding Assistive Tech Overview: The 5 Major Categories &
Amongst the major AT categories are those which address personal needs—such as mobility aids or daily living supports— which are not primarily not supported through the college or university.
Major Categories of Assistive Technology
Major Categories of Assistive Technology
Mobility Aids
Mobility Aids
Devices that help people move independently and navigate their environment.
Examples: Wheelchairs (manual and power), scooters, walkers, canes, crutches, prosthetics, orthotics.
Sub-categories: Patient lifts, transfer aids.
Daily Living Aids
Daily Living Aids
Devices that assist with everyday self-care activities.
Examples: Adaptive eating utensils, dressing aids (button hooks, sock aids), grab bars, modified grips, shower chairs.
Sub-categories: Ramps, stairlifts (may overlap with this category).
Communication Devices
Communication Devices
Tools that assist individuals with limited or no speech to express thoughts and ideas (AAC).
Examples: Speech-generating devices, communication apps on tablets, picture communication boards, eye-gaze technology.
Sub-categories: Low-tech (picture board), mid-tech (device with recorded messages), high-tech (speech synthesizer).
Environmental Control Systems
Environmental Control Systems
Devices that allow individuals to control elements in their surroundings.
Examples: Smart home systems, smart speakers (Alexa, Google Home), automatic door openers, remote-controlled lighting or appliances.
Sub-categories: Interfaces such as voice commands, switches, remote controls.
Computer Access Tools
Computer Access Tools
Hardware and software that helps individuals use computers and digital technology.
Examples: Adaptive keyboards, screen readers (JAWS, NVDA, VoiceOver), screen magnification software, eye-tracking systems.
Sub-categories: Speech-recognition software, alternative pointing devices.
Using functional categories we can find the barriers to learning within reading, writing, communication, organization, and digital access to enable students to engage more fully in coursework, collaborate effectively, and demonstrate their knowledge.
Assistive Technology Functional Categories for Higher Education
Assistive Technology Functional Categories for Higher Education
Reading Access and Comprehension
Writing and Composition
Note-Taking and Lecture Access
Organization and Planning
Visual Access and Magnification
Study, Memory, and Comprehension Supports
Alternative Formats and Conversion Tools
Communication Access Tools
Alternative Input and Access Devices
Higher Education responsibilities regarding assistive technology are clarified using the Functional Assistive Technology Guide for Higher Education.
The Guide outlines nine functional categories of AT, detailing their primary function, who might benefit, and examples of tools and features.
When functional assistive technology is combined with comprehensive campus supports, students have a solid opportunity to succeed in their educational experiences. Integrating physical, digital, and systemic supports throughout the learning environment helps ensure equitable participation for all.
Effective support for students with disabilities requires more than individual devices or software. Accessibility also depends on a campus-wide ecosystem of physical and digital accessible infrastructure, including:
Inclusive classroom and lab design: This involves ensuring the physical learning spaces are accessible to all. Examples include providing ergonomic equipment like adjustable desks and keyguards, as well as specialized alternatives like adapted mice.
Campus-wide physical access: This includes all features that enable navigation and participation across campus, such as ramps, power-operated doors, captioning systems for public areas, and tactile signage.
Universal digital environment: This pertains to the digital infrastructure that students use daily. This means leveraging built-in accessibility features in operating systems and browsers, and ensuring that all campus software and online materials meet robust accessibility standards.
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