Being informed, demanding and responsible consumers of assistive technology: an educational issue

Abstract

Purpose : Awareness and knowledge of Assistive Technology (AT) are key factors in supporting empowerment of people with disabilities. They also greatly contribute to the success of AT solutions. Based on the findings of the EUSTAT study--an international project within the Telematics Application Programme of the European Commission--this paper offers a synthesis of the guidelines developed for those who organize educational activities on AT addressed towards end-users. Results : The educational process is looked at within an empowerment perspective rather that as a mere transmission of notions. The effectiveness of education should be evaluated in relation to the increased ability of end users to make use of AT knowledge for improving their quality of life, and becoming informed, demanding and responsible consumers of AT products and services. Conclusion : To such end a number of critical factors are identified, and ways to address them are discussed. Finally, a case study is reported as an example of an effective AT educational curriculum for end-users.