Seeing the World through a Different Lens
Students model different disabilities to gain a better understanding of physical limitations that many have to encounterCopyright Flickr https://www.flickr.com/photos/91311153@N02/8291653910
Students participate in a variety of activities modeling different disabilities. They gain a better understanding of physical limitations while performing tasks at workstations without the use of their thumbs (taped down), impaired vision (various glasses) and impaired mobility (using crutches and wheelchairs). After discussing their experiences, they work in teams to create or improve on an adaptive device. Like biomedical engineers, students are challenged to design with the purpose of helping make a particular task easier for another person.
Bioengineering technologies explore the production of mechanical devices, products, biological substances, and organisms to improve health and/or contribute improvement to our daily lives. Biomedical and mechanical engineers design and test various types of prosthetics to help people with disabilities.
After this activity students should be able to:
- Explain a range of differing needs for adaptive or assistive devices.
- Describe how technology can be involved in developing and improving assistive and adaptive devices.