GU students learn about assistive technology devices

Published: May 06, 2024

Author: Dave Bell

Representatives of the Illinois Assistive Technology Program recently came to the Greenville University campus. They spoke to special education majors in the School of Education about assistive technology devices that can help
individuals with disabilities accomplish common tasks.

Assistive technology (AT) is anything that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functioning capabilities and independence of persons with disabilities, aging populations, and people with non-communicable diseases.

The mission of the Illinois Assistive Technology Program is to “increase access to those devices and services to individuals of all ages with disabilities.”

Devices with applications in everyday life as well as in educational settings were on display for the students to see and examine. The program’s focus was to give the special education majors hands-on time with the devices so
they could better understand how to help their future students. Included were devices that slip over pencils or pens to make them easier to grip, similar gripping attachments for eating utensils to help individuals feed
themselves, and covers that go over switches to make them easier to operate by people who lack dexterity.

“Attending the Illinois Assistive Technology Program event was really eye-opening,” said Krysten Davis, a GU junior majoring in special education and elementary education. “Learning about the program helps me understand
the technology that’s available to help people with disabilities live a more normal life. I’m grateful that Greenville University and Dr. (Crystal) Foles make hands-on experiences like this possible.”

Foles, who is the Director of Teacher Education at GU, said that providing such experiences is key to the school’s mission of producing passionate educators. “I have a cousin who is disabled, and I saw her struggle during
her educational journey,” Foles said. “The love I have for her ignited a passion in me to focus on special education and work for changes to help people like her be included and given more equitable educational opportunities. She’s
been my guiding light as I’ve worked to produce the next generation of educators.”

Opportunities like visits by representatives of the Illinois Technology Program are made possible through the generous donation of experiential learning funds through the Rise Up campaign.