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Ethical issues in assistive technology

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Cochlear implants do not nearly match the performance of the human cochlea ... Should engineers continue research on cochlear implants, etc? ... – PowerPoint PPT presentation

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Title: Ethical issues in assistive technology


1
Ethical issues in assistive technology
2
Outline
  • Introduction and definitions
  • Any conflicts between goals of therapists and
    engineers?
  • Advantages and disadvantages of AT
  • Some examples
  • Use and abandonment of assistive technology
  • Conclusions

3
Definitions
  • Occupational therapy
  • helps people regain, develop, and build skills
    that are essential for independent functioning,
    health, and well-being.
  • Rehabilitation engineering
  • the application of science and technology to
    improving the quality of life of a persons with
    disabilities.

4
More definitions
  • Assistive technology
  • products, devices or equipment that are used to
    maintain, increase or improve the functional
    capabilities of individuals with disabilities
    (1998 Tech Act)

5
Any conflicts?
  • OTs, (and PTs, SLPs, etc.) and Rehab Engineers
    have similar goals
  • Each uses different techniques to achieve those
    goals
  • Therapists work directly with clients to help
    them develop skills needed for independent living
  • Engineers work with clients, too, but they design
    and build things to help the client

6
The potential conflict
  • Engineers (and others) can get carried away with
    what we can accomplish with technology
  • Sometimes, technology isnt the most appropriate
    solution

7
Advantages and disadvantages of an AT device
  • Advantages
  • It can always be there
  • It can be powerful
  • Disadvantages
  • It may not always work as intended in every
    possible situation
  • It doesnt grow with the client
  • It may break
  • It may encourage the consumer to rely on
    (imperfect) technology instead of developing
    their own skills

8
Some examples follow
  • To build or not to build
  • Are there alternatives to AT
  • When are the alternatives appropriate?
  • When is the AT appropriate?

9
Prosthetics
  • Prosthetics can provide functionality for a lost
    limb
  • However, it is imperfect technology
  • Are there alternatives?
  • Yes, children, in particular, can learn to
    compensate for a lost limb
  • They may not realize they are missing anything
  • When are the alternatives appropriate?
  • When is a prosthetic device appropriate?

10
Cochlearimplants
  • The cochlear implant technology is still
    relatively new
  • The cochlea (inner ear) is very complex
  • Cochlear implants do not nearly match the
    performance of the human cochlea
  • Are there alternatives?
  • Yes, children and adults can learn to communicate
    using sign language
  • When are the alternatives appropriate?
  • When is a cochlear implant appropriate?

11
ClimbingWheelchair
  • Wheelchairs have been developed that can climb
    stairs
  • With this wheelchair, people with disabilities
    can access more places
  • But will this work on any type of stairs? And
    what if it malfunctions?
  • Are there alternatives?
  • modify the environment instead
  • When are the alternatives appropriate?
  • When is a climbing wheelchair appropriate?

12
Case studylaptop computer
  • Jim has cerebral palsy with poor motor control
  • A laptop computer was given to him in
    kindergarten because he had difficulty with
    handwriting
  • His teachers and therapists assumed that he would
    eventually rely on a laptop for all his writing
  • But, Jim wanted to be like everyone else and was
    motivated to write like everyone else
  • His therapist worked with him on handwriting
    skills for the next four years
  • By fourth grade, his handwriting was adequate for
    his age level

13
Laptop computer, continued
  • An individual who has poor motor control can use
    a laptop for writing
  • Are there alternatives?
  • Yes, work with an OT and PT on handwriting
  • When are the alternatives adequate?
  • When is it appropriate to use a laptop for
    writing?

14
Use and abandonment of AT
  • Studies show that up to 75 of AT devices are
    abandoned within 3 years
  • This may be a positive thing
  • Consumer no longer needs AT
  • Consumer needs a more complex device
  • However, it is often a negative thing

15
Why abandon AT?
  • Not well matched to individual
  • Little or no training provided
  • Families not accepting of technology
  • Family members from varying cultures may have
    different perceptions of the need for technology
  • Consumer or their family doesnt want to stand
    out by using the technology
  • School or workplace not accepting of technology

16
To be successful
  • Insure that your device will help the client and
    their family achieve their goals
  • Work as a team with client, family, therapists,
    teachers, supervisors, etc.
  • Communication is crucial

17
What does this mean?
  • Should engineers continue research on cochlear
    implants, etc?
  • What is the role of the engineer and the
    clinician in discussions of new technologies for
    clinical use?
  • Be careful many clinicians are fascinated by
    technology, just like engineers

18
References
  • 1 Assistive Technology Training Online Project
    (ATTO). http//atto.buffalo.edu/
  • 2 Michigans assistive technology resource.
    http//www.matr.org/
  • 3 Family-Centered Decision Making in Assistive
    Technology
  • http//jset.unlv.edu/15.1/parette/first.html

19
The end
  • The benefits of technology are as extensive as
    the abilities and goals of the students using
    them. However, professionals and parents should
    exercise certain cautions. Technology must not
    been seen as a panacea. 1
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