What do High and Low Technology Mean?

I thought I would start off with a simple description as to what high and low technologies really are. For simplicity sake, I will refer to them as High Tech and Low Tech for the remainder of this blog


High Technology refers to any assistive device that requires training and is often expensive. High Tech devices are generally electronically or mechanically based such as computer software and motorized wheelchairs.


Low Technology refers to any assistive device that can be easily used and costs very little if anything. Low Tech devices are things that can be bought from a dollar store or found around the house.


Anytime I talk about a device or tool I will be sure to indicate whether it is low or high tech!


Another term I would like to give you is Universal Design. In short, this means that something can be used by nearly anyone without any modification. One low tech example is curb cuts at the ends of sidewalks and walkways that can be used by people in wheelchairs, the elderly with canes or walkers, people with rolling suitcases and even delivery persons. A high tech example is the automatic doors to stores and offices that allow people in wheelchairs to access the builiding without the need to pull a handle or turn a knob. These automatic doors can also be used by someone with an armful of packages! Universal Design applies to everything including the home, community and schools.


Resources:


The Center for Universal Design (CUD) [North Carolina] http://www.ncsu.edu/www/ncsu/design/sod5/cud/
Universal Design For Learning http://www.advocacyinstitute.org/UDL/


Have a fantastic day!