Adaptive technology refers to any technological equipment that can be used to enhance the independent functioning of people with disability in areas such as communication, activities of daily living, work or for recreational purposes.
Adaptive technology specialists are aware of the vast range of adaptive equipment available to enhance a person's capacity to be independent. They can assess individual needs within the workplace, make recommendations on the most appropriate and cost effective technology, give advice on recommended products, and assist with training on how to use the new equipment to ensure maximum benefits are gained. Some adaptive technology specialists may specialise in particular fields such as working with people with vision impairment (Vision Australia 2007; McBurney Disability Resource Centre 2007).
Services provided
Within the workplace, an adaptive technology specialist can complete a comprehensive assessment of a person's needs including:
- their disability
- their strengths and abilities
- any restrictions which are limiting independence and productivity at work
- the type of work undertaken
- the current workstation and equipment available
- the work environment including accessibility to all facilities at work (for example, entrances to the building, access to the kitchen and bathroom especially if a person uses a wheelchair or has restricted mobility).
A range of potential solutions can then be investigated and recommendations made on how work is undertaken (work processes) and adaptive equipment that may increase the person's productivity and independence within the workplace.
This can then result in:
- greater confidence and self esteem for the employee
- greater opportunities for acquiring new skills and participating in training and therefore opening up promotional avenues
- increased job satisfaction and therefore likelihood of remaining with the organisation (reducing staff turnover costs)
- less ongoing support required by supervisors and co-workers.
All people with disability, including language and learning disability, acquired brain injury, deafness or hearing loss, mobility restrictions, hand dexterity problems or visual impairment, can benefit from an assessment by an adaptive technology specialist in the workplace if barriers to independence exist (Vision Australia 2007, McBurney Disability Resource Centre 2007).
If a workplace assessment is being arranged for a person with a physical disability or mobility restriction, there are assessors who specialise in this area. Physiotherapists, exercise physiologists and sports scientists are considered to be physical and mobility specialists.
Panel of workplace assessors
The workplace assessors listed in the Workplace Adjustment Tool are part of a panel of assessors formed by the Department of Employment and Workplace Relations as part of the Workplace Modifications Scheme.
The Workplace Modifications Scheme pays for the costs involved in modifying the workplace or purchasing special or adaptive equipment for eligible employees with disability. Under the Scheme, the JobAccess Advisers will assess the need for a workplace assessment and organise the assessment, at no cost to the employer or employee, with one of the professionals listed in the panel.
Alternatively, an employer can approach a panel member independently for a paid assessment.
For more information about workplace assessments under the Workplace Modifications Scheme, call the JobAccess Advisers on 1800 464 800.
References and resources
Independent Living Centres Australia Inc. 2007, Independent Living Centres Australia, Sydney, viewed 25 May 2007, <http://www.ilcaustralia.org/search.asp>.
McBurney Disability Resource Centre 2007, Adaptive Technology Specialist Position Description, The University of Wisconsin, Wisconsin, viewed 1 June 2007, <http://www.mcburney.wisc.edu/facstaffother/jobseekers/ats.php>.
Vision Australia 2007, Technology and Training Solutions, Vision Australia, Enfield, viewed 1 June 2007, http://www.visionaustralia.org.au/info.aspx?page=586.