Allyn & Bacon

Communication Sciences & Disorders

Browse available resources for Communication Sciences & Disorders:



Assistive Technology: Essential Human Factors
Thomas W. King, University of Wisconsin, Eau Claire

ISBN-10: 0205273262
ISBN-13: 9780205273263

Publisher: Allyn & Bacon
Copyright: 1999
Format: Paper; 305 pp
Published: 09/14/1998

Suggested retail price: $85.40
Buy from myPearsonStore

Professionals in Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, Special Education, and related fields are becoming more interested in how humans use technology. Until now, the books available on human factors were more engineering oriented; this new reference is readable and understandable to students, professionals, assistive technology users, families, product developers — anyone new to assistive technology. The historical and cultural background provided considers the human factors perspective on why assistive technology is used, how to work with assistive technology, and the people it is intended to help. The book introduces assistive technology and its component areas, but focuses more on the human factors involved — not just on the technology itself.

Based on real clinical experiences and academic research, Assistive Technology examines how devices and people can work together to help increase the acceptance, effectiveness, and efficiency of technology. The text investigates how human factors (such as fear, stress, rejection, etc.) can influence the efficacy of assistive technology.

  • Written in an open and easily accessible style. Professionals, students, families, and others will find it readable and useful.
  • Clear tables, diagrams, photos, vignettes, and case examples help demonstrate key points.
  • Includes end of chapter questions and problems designed to stimulate critical thinking on human factors in assistive technology.
  • Bibliography contains extensive listings of print sources; Appendix lists organizations to contact for more information.

Each chapter concludes with “Some Final Comments” and/or “Study Questions.”

Preface and Acknowledgments.


1.Why a Book on Human Factors in Assistive Technology?

“Jim” — A Case Example to Begin.

The Importance of Human Factors.

Resources in Human Factors.



2.Tools, Transparency, and Assistive Technology.

Who Are Tool Users?

Transparent, Translucent, and Opaque Assistive Technologies.

Assistive Technology: Special Tools for Special People?

A Brief History of Assistive Technology.

Component Areas of Assistive Technology.

Who Are the Primary Users of Assistive Technology?

The Professionals and Others Who Work with Assistive Technology

Who Uses Assistive Technology? Case Examples.



3.What Are Human Factors?

Background.

Human Factors in Assistive Technology.

Human Factors in Daily Life.

A Quick Human Factors Quiz — Some Practical Realities.

Essential Areas of Human Factors in AT: Details and Case Examples.

A Framework for Understanding Human Factors in AT: Baker's Basic Ergonomic Equation.



4.Human Factors and Assistive Technology Goals.

Human Factors and Intents of Assistive Technology.

Details and Applications of Baker's Basic Ergonomic Equation.



5.Essential Human Factors in Assistive Technology.

Specific Human Factors is AT.



6.Switches and Controls: The Pass Keys to Assistive Technology.

Switches and Controls: Definitions and Examples.

Specific Human Factors Regarding Switches and Controls.

A Brief International Perspective on Switches and Controls.

Assistive Technology and Fitts' Law.



7.CRT, LCD, and LED Screens: The Gateways to Assistive Technology.

How Screens Work — A Brief Overview.

Screens in Everyday Life.

Essential Human Factors Related to Screens.



8.AT Levels, Technological Literacy, and Life Span Issues.

Levels of Assistive Technology.

Toward Technological Literacy.

Components of AT Diagnosis and Intervention.

Technology Issues Across the Life Span.



9.Why AT Fails: A Human Factors Perspective.

Factors Related to the People Who Surround the AT User.

Factors Related to the AT User.

Factors Related to the AT Device Itself.



Appendix: Resources for More Information on Human Factors and Assistive Technology.


Glossary.


References.


Index.

Pearson Higher Education offers special pricing when you choose to package your text with other student resources. If you're interested in creating a cost-saving package for your students, contact your Pearson Higher Education representative for pricing and ordering information.

Pearson Higher Education offers special pricing when you choose to package your text with other student resources. If you're interested in creating a cost-saving package for your students, browse our available packages below, or contact your Pearson Higher Education representative to create your own package.



Copyright ©2008 Pearson Education. All rights reserved. Legal Notice | Privacy Policy | Permissions