Assistive Technology (AT) versus Mainstream Technology (MST): The research perspective

Internet Based Activities (IBAs): Seniors' Experiences of the Conditions Required for the Performance of and the Influence of these Conditions on their Own Participation in Society

“…The use of the Internet within people's daily life and as a natural part of it is rapidly increasing (Chinn & Fairlie, 2007;Howard, Rainie, & Jones, 2001), and as society is changing and becoming more dependent on technical solutions, individuals' performance of daily activities is likely to have to change (Emiliani, 2006). Nowadays people can perform many kinds of productive, leisure, and self-care activities via the Internet (Verdonck & Ryan, 2008).…”

Enhancing AAC connections with the world

“…While reactive approaches are sometimes needed (Vanderheiden, 1998), these approaches are often problematic in times of rapid technological change. By the time one problem has been resolved on a particular device, the development of new and ''improved'' technologies results in new challenges (Emiliani, 2006;Stephanidis, & Emiliani, 1999). In a time of rapid change, there is a danger that the needs and concerns of individuals with disabilities will be lost (Abascal & Nicolle, 2005).…”

“…Today devices are interactive with multiple other technologies, afford users with an array of functions, and frequently provide multimedia applications (Emiliani, 2006). This increased interoperability has led to significant advances associated with wireless information and communication technologies.…”

“…It is necessary that social and political factors gain influence over this process'' (p. 484). Increases in the complexity of systems or services often increase the number and extent of problems experienced by individuals with disabilities (Emiliani, 2006). To date, the public policy issues that have an impact AAC interoperability have included both targeted programs as well as broad legislative initiatives.…”

“…Digital communication technologies and wireless connectivity are now essential features of today's ''Information Society'' (Emiliani, 2006). For example, in the United States, 66% of the people own a computer (Bush, 2006), and over 69% have access to the Internet (Internet World Stats, 2007); in the United Kingdom, there are now more cell phones than people (CIA World Factbook, 2007).…”