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, 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?


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