The impact on the development of impaired individuals through evolving technologies

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to gain a better understanding of the use of assistive technology devices for the development of young persons having a cognitive delay. Specifically, children will be monitored to examine the way they communicate and interact with the ones around them. Furthermore, the close family of the individual using Assistive Technologies (ATs) will also be studied through interviews to understand their knowledge of such technology, which they need to learn to communicate with their relative. To analyse their understanding, the children’s close members will be asked how they manage to adapt to the assistive device being used in the circumstances and explain how this assists in daily tasks. Moreover, professionals within the sector will also be interviewed to share their experience and opinions on the use of Assistive Technologies. Questions are aimed to gather information about the core understanding that these professionals endorse such technologies as well as their rapport with the student’s parents vis-à-vis the use of such devices. Obtained results suggest that parents and guardians have sufficient knowledge of devices and equipment recommended by professionals to help the child communicate and develop. This study demonstrates that although there is reasonable awareness of the use and benefits of assistive devices, there remains room for all concerned to become more involved to help the child improve and achieve milestones quicker.