Which scenario would least likely be considered assistive technology?

Which scenario would least likely be considered assistive technology?

• A. Calculators to use in math class
• B. Switch toys to participate in leisure activities
• C. Pencil grip to improve handwriting
• D. Computers for students to type

Answer: (A)

Assistive technology includes devices or tools that help a person with a disability perform tasks that might be difficult otherwise. The switch-access toys help someone with limited motor control participate in leisure activities, which is a clear use of AT to enable participation. A pencil grip is designed to improve handwriting for someone with fine motor challenges, another classic AT example. Computers used for typing provide an alternative means to produce written work for those who struggle with handwriting or text entry, which is also AT. Calculators used in math class are widely used by most students and are often considered standard classroom tools rather than specific devices to offset a disability. They become assistive technology when they’re used to compensate for a disability, but in typical settings they’re viewed as a general instructional tool. Therefore, this scenario is least likely to be categorized as assistive technology.

Assistive technology includes devices or tools that help a person with a disability perform tasks that might be difficult otherwise. The switch-access toys help someone with limited motor control participate in leisure activities, which is a clear use of AT to enable participation. A pencil grip is designed to improve handwriting for someone with fine motor challenges, another classic AT example. Computers used for typing provide an alternative means to produce written work for those who struggle with handwriting or text entry, which is also AT.

Calculators used in math class are widely used by most students and are often considered standard classroom tools rather than specific devices to offset a disability. They become assistive technology when they’re used to compensate for a disability, but in typical settings they’re viewed as a general instructional tool. Therefore, this scenario is least likely to be categorized as assistive technology.