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Technology Exploration Center (TEC) Fact Sheet

The Technology Exploration Center (TEC) provides individuals, families, employers, and school teams with numerous assistive technology (AT) services including the opportunity to explore the variety of AT solutions that promote independence and function while participating in home, school, work, and leisure activities.

The TEC Resource Library contains a variety of AT-related publications, newsletters, catalogs, and demonstration software. Our technicians are also available to assist visitors by providing background information and exploration strategies related to the features, benefits, and cost of AT solutions.

The TEC provides user-friendly opportunities to "test drive" AT solutions. Visitors can explore:

• computer access hardware and software;

• augmentative and alternative communication devices;

• adapted toys;

• switches;

• workstations; and

• assorted tools and materials for the fabrication/modification of low-cost assistive technology solutions.

Personalized Technical Support is available to discuss the scope of AT and its various applications. Our one-on-one guidance and trouble shooting assistance address the challenges that you or your organization might face while utilizing a piece of equipment or software. This support is available at the TEC, in the community, or via the telephone.

Assistive Technology Workshops are furnished to individuals and groups throughout the year. We provide workshops on a variety of school, community, and employment-based AT software and hardware, and can assist with set-up, installation and training. We pride ourselves on the fact that most of our workshops enable participants to acquire hands-on experiences.

• View 2008 Workshop Descriptions and Fee Structure for TEC Services.

Loans for trial, training, and extended evaluations are provided for individuals to explore first-hand the features and benefits of specific devices. The importance of this experience is illustrated by national studies, which report that each year approximately 30% of AT solutions are abandoned because, prior to its purchase, limited time is available to use a product and determine its appropriateness. This service is available in conjunction with the NH-ATEC evaluation process.

Please contact us to schedule an appointment, receive technical support or training, or to obtain a short-term equipment loan.

The Technology Exploration Center is supported, in part, with funds from ATinNH, the New Hampshire State Program on Assistive Technology.