Appendix A
Sample AT-related Questions
Questions to ask about choice options:
- What will it accomplish?
- What problems will it solve?
- What are its limitations?
- What are the advantages/ disadvantages of this device?
- Is it flexible enough to accommodate changes if the child's disability changes?
- Is there a way that a "standard" piece of equipment could be modified to meet the need?
Questions on characteristics and features:
- Is the general appearance acceptable and desirable?
- Is it comfortable and conforming personally and environmentally?
- What are the safety features?
- How safe is it when thinking about how it's going to be used?
- Is it washable?
- Can it be used indoors and outdoors?
- Will bad weather affect the use and performance?
- Does it have special features to make it more/ less desirable?
- How big is it?
- How much does it weigh?
- Are size and weight important features?
Questions on availability and purchase:
- Is a prescription necessary?
- Does the cost affect the ability to acquire it?
- Has it been on the market long enough to establish itself?
- Are references available from past and present users?
- Is it a stock item or does it need to be made to order?
- What is the return policy?
- What are the conditions of warranty?
Questions on examination and use:
- Is there a demonstration available?
- Is it possible to rent or borrow this equipment?
- Is there an opportunity to see it being used by others?
- Has it been field tested?
- If the device has been field tested, by whom?
- Is the operation complicated beyond user tolerance?
- Is user training available from the vendor?
- Is training included in the purchase/ rental price?
- Is technical support available from the vendor?
Questions on wear and maintenance:
- What is the normal lifetime expectancy of the device?
- What is the frequency of repairs?
- What is the required service and maintenance?
- Who does the required service and maintenance?
- How far will it be necessary to travel to get service or maintenance? Is there a loaner available during repair periods?
- Can the child fix or adjust the device?
- Is there someone else who can fix or adjust the device for the child?
- Is there adequate, understandable maintenance information available for the child and his/ her family?
Technical Questions:
- Does the type of electrical system require batteries, battery chargers, or AC adapter?
- If batteries are required, how expensive are they?
- How long are the batteries expected to last?
- Does the device use standard components and values (i.e., switches, software, hardware, voltages)?
- What is the type of power system (hydraulics, pneumatics)?
- What kinds of advantages/disadvantages are associated with its use?
- Is the device compatible with other equipment (cords, connectors, attachments, other equipment, machinery, etc.) or methods currently used by the child?
Questions to Consider for the Transportation of Assistive Technology
- Will the child be able to carry the device without assistance? If appropriate, what kind of assistance will be necessary?
- Does the device have a carrying case and wheels? Are there other options for transportation of the device?
- Does the size or weight of the device make the transportation impossible?
- Does the home have the necessary electrical outlets and other requirements to operate the device safely and effectively?
- Can the device withstand jolts and jars?
