A multi-site, Augmentative Alternative Communication (AAC) efficacy study compared the effects of two AAC devices on the language, and cognition of children with neurodevelopmental disorders (Down and Fragile X syndromes) age 5-12 years old. Participants were randomized to either device 1 (Chatbox 40) or device 2 (ALT-Chat), and a randomized pre- and -post, multi-site design was used to investigate the effectiveness of the AAC devices.
This project furthered the development of a secure, multi-site assistive technology outcomes system that captures data for measuring the impact of assistive technology devices and services for children and adults with disabilities.
In collaboration with the RERC for Workplace Accommodations, Assistive Technology Partners developed, tested and refined a context aware prompting system designed to act as a job coach for adults with cognitive disabilities working in assembly line jobs in competitive employment settings. A randomized clinical trial was conducted to compare the impact of two types of work-related prompting systems: electronic aid(personal digital assistants (PDAs)) and CAPS.
Assistive Technology Partners conducted a research study as a part of the RERC for Rehabilitation Technologies to determine if improvements in access, participation, adherence, health, and function around physical activity increases the quality of life and health for persons with disabilities of all ages.
Assistive Technology Partners has partnered with Senior Researchers from the Armonk facility to develop and evaluate new accessibility features for next generation systems and personalization of keyboard features.
Assistive Technology Partners has worked with AbleLink Technologies, Inc. to evaluate the impact of a hand-held auditory prompting system for persons with cognitive impairments.
In conjunction with It's Never 2 Late, Assistive Technology Partners evaluated the impact on Quality of Life for senior citizens living in nursing homes who are trained to use computers. With support for learning to use adapted keyboards, trackballs and other assistive technology devices to email their family and friends, these individuals are now accessing the internet.
SMS Consulting, Inc.
Two Small Business Innovation Research Phase I grants were awarded to SMS Consulting, Inc. The role of Assistive Technology Partners was to measure the impact of the Personal Scanner for persons who are blind or unable to read LCD displays on common office equipment, and the impact of the QWIKClick, an on-screen keyboard for persons using a single switch to activate the computer.