Diverse users, diverse needs: The development of an online assistive technology learning tool

A wide variety of new forms of Electronic Assistive Technology (EAT) have been developed in recent years - having the potential to meet a much wider range of service-user needs. Consequently, practitioners of all grades are finding that is increasingly important to maintain an awareness of developments in this area. In July 2008, the College of Occupational Therapists approached Coventry University’s Department of Occupational Therapy to identify what Continuing Professional Development opportunities could be designed to meet the needs of its members in this regard.

This paper outlines the rationale underpinning the University's response to this request - the development of an online Assistive Technology Learning Tool (ATLT) that could cater both for a diverse range of learners and a diverse range of health issues, whilst allowing easy updating of information - and discusses preliminary evaluations from those undertaking the ATLT package after its release.