Innovation in Action
The Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC) opened its doors in 1999 and has been offering top-notch technology solutions for kids and adults with special needs since that time.
The Center features state-of-the-art assistive technology equipment and is the only library of its type in the region that serves people of all ages with any type or degree of disability.
Services are provided by assistive technology practitioners including a rehabilitation engineer, speech pathologist, and occupational therapist. These individuals provide screening, assessment, consultation, equipment specification, and short-term training to support independence through technology. A resource coordinator helps visitors borrow or rent equipment for trial use.
To celebrate its 10th anniversary of service, ATRC held a spectacular vendor and information fair for individuals with disabilities and professionals. The event showcased the Center’s extensive inventory of assistive technology, new products, and other enriching services available at Redwood and in the community.
ATRC epitomizes the innovative spirit of Redwood and iRobot is just one example. The program pairs Redwood ingenuity with robotic concepts developed through the First LEGO League International Robotics Program.
School-agers in the after school and summer programs loved iRobot. The kids learned how a robot “thinks” during scavenger hunts by following written directions just as the robots do. They saw ho light, sound, and touch sensors helped robots understand their surroundings, just as human senses allow us to interact with our environment. They became programmers, scientists, and engineers as they assembled, programmed, and repaired robots. As the kids progressed in skill and understanding, they built mazes and programmed the robots to traverse them.
The program proved to be so popular that adults are now getting a taste of iRobot. Every Tuesday, small groups of adults experience the magic of becoming a robot programmer. Rehabilitation Engineer Latasha Lampkin states, “It is so exciting to see adults who have never used a computer drive a mouse and create computer instructions that program robots to perform complex maneuvers.”
For more information about iRobot or other innovative services offered by the Assistive Technology Resource Center, contact Redwood toll free at 800-728-9807 or visit our website.
