New Assistive Technology Library

The Electronic Assistive Technology Library is an on-line library that facilitates borrowing of electronic assistive technology. Members may borrow devices for trial and/or training purposes. This exciting new resource, www.try-it.ie, has just been launched.

What is www.try-it.ie?

Try-It, www.try-it.ie, is an on-line library of electronic assistive technology (EAT).  EAT includes: alternative keyboards and mice, literacy support software, screen reading and screen magnification software and voice output communication devices as well as a wide range of other devices, (see www.try-it.ie for full range). This on-line resource enables principals, teachers, pupils and their families throughout the country to benefit from trials of a wide range of up-to-date EAT equipment.  The resource is modelled on best practice internationally and is the first of its kind in Ireland. 

Benefits of www.try-it.ie for Schools

• Creates awareness of available EAT options. Enables students to trial devices in
• school and home – putting the student at the centre of the selection/assessment process while also making possible the involvement of teachers, friends and family throughout the process.
• More successful device selection – reduced abandonment & greater levels of independence & participation in school.
• Teachers can borrow devices for their own professional training – equipping them to better support and understand the needs of students in their class using EAT.
• Support network for teachers and EAT users – peer support feature, product reviews, training, etc.
• Cost effective resource – multiple agencies benefiting from the same investment.
• Data collection & analysis on disability and EAT usage in education in Ireland.

International Recognition
As a stamp of international recognition, and a mark of the significance of this initiative, www.try it.ie was awarded a finalist ACCESS-IT@home award at the 2009 international ACCESS-IT Awards, London in September 2009.  This award recognises ICT based projects, products or services that advance independent living for people with disabilities and/or the elderly.  The winner in itscategory was the BBC iPlayer.  There were approximately 100 nominations submitted to the ACCESS-IT Awards from 24 countries including countries outside Europe e.g. USA, Australia, and Syrian Arab Republic.