Coursework in assistive technology often makes up part of a special education degree or teacher recertification classes. Predictably, these courses focus on technology in the classroom. Sample course titles include human learning and development, foundations of instructional technology, instructional design and development, current trends in education, technology in teaching and learning, distance education and role of the technology facilitator. Such programs also often include a practicum under the supervision of an experienced teacher.
Health care and work rehabilitation workers may find assistive technology courses helpful. Class titles that focus on physical and employment rehabilitation include introduction to assistive technology, ergonomics and job accommodation, rehabilitation environments, medical aspects of disability for rehabilitation counselors, disability and society: introduction to disability studies, augmentive and alternative communication and wheeled mobility and seating. These degree programs may also include clinical training to give students hands-on experience working with adaptive technology in homes, workplaces and schools.
Educational, business, government, medical and rehab organization administrators and researchers might benefit from the legal and general research courses within assistive technology programs. Such classes cover outcomes management; fundamentals of educational research; disability law, policy and the community; introduction to technology and disabilities; and civil and human rights law for people with disabilities. Understanding accessibility law is important for those who develop educational and rehabilitation programs as well as designers of classrooms and offices.
Design within the adaptive technology field includes design of software and hardware such as computer programs, wheelchair design and vehicle adaptation. Courses focus on specific disorders such as mobility, developmental communication and acquired communication. Classes include learning about low-tech solutions and adapting environments for activities besides classroom and work such as recreation, sports and leisure. Students learn how to design and organize buildings and rooms to fulfill code requirements and create the most effective environment.