Universal Designs &

Assistive Technology
Advanced Technology helps to enable
occupational performance of Disabled Persons.
Universal Design
• Universal Design is the design and composition of an
environment so that it can be accessed, understood and
used to the greatest extent possible by all people
regardless of their age, size, ability or disability. 
• The design is useful and marketable to people with
diverse abilities. More Manufacturers of Standard
Products are moving towards the universal design.
Examples of Universal Design
• Height-accessible service desk
• Accessible websites & Captioned videos
• Door handles that do not require a grip
• High contrast color selection tools
• Disability Services staff/students with disabilities on
planning boards
• Class outlines & notes are available for all students on
accessible websites
Assistive Technology
• Assistive Technology is any device, software, or
equipment that helps people work around challenges so
they can learn, communicate, and function better.
• These tools can help people work around their
challenges, while also playing to their strengths. This is
especially important for kids who struggle with learning;
whether in reading, writing, math, or another subject.
• Assistive Technology can help these kids thrive in school
and in life. And that can help grow their confidence and
independence.
Examples of Assistive Technology

• Mobility aids; such as wheelchairs, scooters, walkers,

canes, crutches, prosthetic devices, and orthotic
devices.
• Hearing aids to help people hear or hear more clearly.
• Cognitive aids, including computer or electrical assistive
devices, to help people with memory, attention, or other
challenges in their thinking skills.
• Tools such as automatic page turners, book holders, and
adapted pencil grips to help learners with disabilities
participate in educational activities.
Examples of Assistive Technology

• Computer software and hardware, such as voice

recognition programs, screen readers, and screen
enlargement applications, to help people with mobility
and sensory impairments use computers and mobile
devices.
• Lightweight, high-performance mobility devices that
enable persons with disabilities to play sports and be
physically active.
Rehabilitation Acts & Amendments
• The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits
discrimination against people with disabilities in several
areas, including employment, transportation, public
accommodations, communications and access
to state and local government' programs and services.
• Under Section 508 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, as
amended, agencies must provide members of the public,
as well as employees with disabilities, access to
information comparable to that afforded those without
disabilities.