Levels of Assistive Technology; Some Practical, Working Definitions

Levels	Characteristics	Examples
No-tech	Strategies, methods, and/or techniques that rely primarily on user’s ability to move or utilize various body parts. Unaided Can be free, no expense Easily understood by all	Sign language, fingerspelling. Knocking on a door. Scooting up and down steps in modified way. Eye or finger pointing. Tapping or squeezing hand. Vocalizing and speaking.
Low-tech	Incorporates strategies, methods and/or techniques as above, with relatively simple materials and equipment commonly found in living and working environments. Can rely on off-the-shelf, inexpensive consumer technologies. Commonly simple, And easily understood without training	Handwriting with pen or pencil. Modified eating utensils. Picture or symbol communication board. Adjustable or reclining chair. Elevated or adjustable countertops. Basic wheelchair/stroller Modified knobs on faucet.
High-tech	AT user integrated with complex, typically expensive electronic, mechanical, and/or hydraulic technologies to accomplish user’s purposes. Complex combination of above technologies. Usually need training to facilitate	Sending a fax or email. Operating a speech-output device Operating a motorized wheelchair. Using an electric stair lift. Use of computer with software and./or hardware modifications Voice-operated ECU

Source: King, T. W. (1999). Assistive technology: Essential human factors. Allyn and Bacon, p. 194