Professionals in Speech-Language Pathology, Audiology, Special Education, and related fields are becoming more interested in how humans use technology. Until now, the books available on human factors were more engineering oriented; this new reference is readable and understandable to students, professionals, assistive technology users, families, product developers — anyone new to assistive technology. The historical and cultural background provided considers the human factors perspective on why assistive technology is used, how to work with assistive technology, and the people it is intended to help. The book introduces assistive technology and its component areas, but focuses more on the human factors involved — not just on the technology itself.

Based on real clinical experiences and academic research, Assistive Technology examines how devices and people can work together to help increase the acceptance, effectiveness, and efficiency of technology. The text investigates how human factors (such as fear, stress, rejection, etc.) can influence the efficacy of assistive technology.