Co-Production Prompt Questions

Assistive and Adaptive Technology


 Assistive Technology (AT) refers to any device or system that helps to improve the functional capacity of people with disabilities, this section deals primarily with computer-related applications

Assistive technology is a very broad field and may range from very simple to very complex. It may be divided into high, medium and low-tech categories:


  • 'low-tech' refers to unsophisticated and largely non-electronic devices, such as a laptop stand
  • 'medium-tech' devices are more complicated but are used by those by pupils with some degree of independent functioning. Adaptive computer peripherals, such as alternative mice or keyboards, will usually come within this category
  • high-tech' devices include sophisticated communication and computer control systems. At this end of the AT range, considerable specialist training and support will be necessary, and pupils with little independent functioning or communication ability will be the main users.


Website HERE



Technology has changed the face of education and for many students with disabilities, it has levelled up the playing field and enabled them to realise their true potential. Assistive Technology can be as simple as a magnifying glass for someone with a visual impairment, as every day as a smartphone calendar app helping those with specific learning difficulties plan their study or as complex as eye-tracking technology which enables those with significant mobility impairments to use a computer. We’ve listed some assistive technology that is commonly used in higher education in Ireland below and grouped them by disability - that is types that are commonly used by students with those disabilities. The list is by no means exhaustive but is designed to give you an indication of what is out there.

Click the disability category to have further information drop down about the types of AT they might use.

For more information about Assistive Technology, go to our assistive technology section called 'AT Hive' to explore the range of free and non-free AT.


Website HERE