Harnessing The Power Of Technology To Improve Lives

The lives of people with disabilities are complex and various, and there are many situations where technology – particularly assistive technology – already makes a real difference. It is clear that smart phone and tablet computer based solutions continue to enhance the independence of many users, but it is also important that more traditional assistive technologies and services are not forgotten or neglected. This book presents the proceedings of the 14th conference of the Association for the Advancement of Assistive Technology in Europe (AAATE 2017) entitled: ‘Harnessing the power of technology to improve lives’, held in Sheffield, UK, in September 2017. This 4-day event about assistive technologies (AT) highlights the association’s interest in innovating not only technology, but also services, and addresses the global challenge of meeting the needs of the increasing number of people who could benefit from assistive technology. The 200+ papers in the book are grouped under 30 subject headings, and include contributions on a wide range of topical subjects, including aging well and dementia; care robotics; eHealth and apps; innovations; universal design; sport; and disordered speech. The breadth of the AAATE conference reflects people’s life needs and so the book is sure to contain something of interest to all those whose work involves the design, development and use of assistive technology, whatever the situation. The photo on the front cover illustrates the breadth of assistive technologies that can improve lives. Photographer: Simon Butler.

The two-volume set LNCS 10896 and 10897 constitutes the refereed proceedings of the 16th International Conference on Computers Helping People with Special Needs, ICCHP 2018, held in Linz, Austria, in July2018. The 101 revised full papers and 78 short papers presented were carefully reviewed and selected from 356 submissions. The papers are organized in the following topical sections: Web accessibility in the connected world; accessibility and usability of mobile platforms for people with disabilities and elderly persons: design, development and engineering; accessible system/information/document design; accessible e-learning - e-learning for accessibility/AT; personalized access to TV, film, theatre, and music; digital games accessibility; accessibility and usability of self-service terminals, technologies and systems; universal learning design; motor and mobility disabilities: AT, HCI, care; empowerment of people with cognitive disabilities using digital technologies; augmented and alternative communication (AAC), supported speech; Art Karshmer lectures in access to mathematics, science and engineering; environmental sensing technologies for visual impairment; 3D printing in the domain of assistive technologies (AT) and do it yourselves (DIY) AT; tactile graphics and models for blind people and recognition of shapes by touch; access to artworks and its mediation by and for visually impaired people; digital navigation for people with visual impairments; low vision and blindness: human computer interaction; future perspectives for ageing well: AAL tools, products, services; mobile healthcare and m-health apps for people with disabilities; and service and information provision.

Introducing "Assert Yourself! Harnessing the Power of Assertiveness in Your Career" by Rae A. Stonehouse Are you ready to take charge of your career and build strong, fulfilling relationships? Look no further than "Assert Yourself! Harnessing the Power of Assertiveness in Your Career" by author Rae A. Stonehouse. This transformative book empowers you with the tools and techniques of responsible assertive behavior, helping you enhance your interpersonal skills and gain the respect you deserve. Respect lies at the heart of assertiveness, and this training program focuses on two essential parts: respecting yourself and honoring the needs and rights of others. By mastering assertiveness, you can establish meaningful connections, protect yourself from being taken advantage of, and make confident decisions that align with your values. In "Assert Yourself!," Stonehouse shares his personal journey of discovering the power of assertiveness and how it transformed his career. Drawing from his extensive experience as a mental health nurse, therapist, and author of self-help books, he offers practical exercises and insights to help you develop and strengthen your assertiveness skills. Through responsible assertive behavior, you'll learn how to engage in direct, honest communication while maintaining mutual respect. This approach creates a foundation for fair play, equal exchange, and effective conflict resolution. Worried about hurting others' feelings? Stonehouse reassures you that responsible assertiveness reduces this risk and encourages you to focus on your own needs and rights while still maintaining compassion for others. In "Assert Yourself!," Stonehouse guides you on a journey of self-discovery, enhanced communication, and fulfilling relationships. Each chapter builds on the previous ones, providing a comprehensive understanding of assertiveness. Practical exercises throughout the book let you apply what you've learned and incrementally build your self-confidence. Discover the benefits of assertiveness in the business world in Chapter 1, where Stonehouse explores effective communication, the distinction between assertiveness, aggression, and passivity, and the significance of assertive communication in achieving business goals. Gain insights into building strong relationships, enhancing decision-making, resolving conflicts, strengthening leadership skills, and excelling in negotiations. In later chapters, Stonehouse delves deeper into various parts of assertiveness, providing valuable guidance on applying assertive skills in different scenarios, whether in the workplace or personal life. Learn how to navigate the challenges of teamwork, conflict resolution, and decision-making, and unleash your full potential in your professional and personal endeavors. "Assert Yourself! Harnessing the Power of Assertiveness in Your Career" is your key to unlocking personal growth and enriched relationships. Embrace your true self, appreciate your strengths and weaknesses, and cultivate a deep sense of self-liking and comfort. Invest in yourself and watch as your newfound assertiveness transforms every part of your life. Join Rae A. Stonehouse on this empowering journey of self-discovery, enhanced communication, and fulfilling relationships. Grab your copy of "Assert Yourself! Harnessing the Power of Assertiveness in Your Career" today and take the first step toward personal and professional empowerment.

In a world increasingly driven by technology, understanding and harnessing the power of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has become paramount. "Harnessing the Power of AI: A Guide to Making Technology Work for You" offers a comprehensive exploration of AI from its fundamental concepts to its real-world applications and societal implications. From businesses seeking growth opportunities to healthcare professionals revolutionizing patient care, educators shaping the future of learning, and policymakers navigating the complexities of governance, AI has the potential to transform every facet of our lives. This book serves as a roadmap for individuals and organizations looking to navigate the AI landscape effectively. Covering topics such as AI basics, implementation strategies, industry-specific applications, ethical considerations, and the future of AI, this guide provides practical insights and actionable advice. Whether you're a seasoned professional or a curious newcomer, "Harnessing the Power of AI" equips you with the knowledge and tools needed to leverage AI effectively while ensuring ethical and responsible use. Discover how AI can enhance productivity, drive innovation, and solve complex challenges while navigating the ethical and societal implications of this transformative technology. With "Harnessing the Power of AI" as your companion, unlock the full potential of AI and make technology work for you.

A practical guide designed to empower maintenance professionals and organizations to streamline their maintenance management processes. In this comprehensive ebook, readers will discover the transformative potential of Computerized Maintenance Management Systems (CMMS) and how they can leverage technology to optimize maintenance workflows, reduce downtime, and maximize operational efficiency. Packed with real-world examples, expert tips, and step-by-step implementation strategies, this book equips readers with the knowledge and tools to successfully implement and utilize CMMS solutions for effective maintenance planning, asset management, work order tracking, preventive maintenance scheduling, etc. Whether you're a facility manager, maintenance supervisor, or an aspiring professional, "CMMS Unleashed" is your go-to resource for harnessing the power of technology to revolutionize your maintenance management practices and drive long-term success.

Spectacularity of design is a book which encapsulates the overarching theme of exploring various aspects of design, from innovation and technology integration to challenging norms and shaping the future. It hints at the diverse and dynamic content covered in the book, inviting readers to embark on a captivating journey through the world of design and how a creative perspective can change the way of thinking. The book has covered various aspects of design by explaining the importance of innovative, creative and realistic ideas. The author has explained how and why redefining of the present structure and way of thinking is important in making design and architecture an influential part in minimizing the environmental impact and step towards sustainability. The author has also tried to give a different perspective of the way technology is reshaping the way designers conceive, create, and bring their ideas to life.

Elevate your team’s attitude from “whatever” to “whatever it takes” Seasoned educator Ron Nash inspires all school staff members to embark on their own continuous improvement journeys and model that experience for their students. This book provides a framework for individual reflection and evaluation of schools’ processes as part of a professional development program. Included are strategies and examples from successful schools nationwide. The results speak for themselves: Inspired and empowered staff members Active classrooms with engaged students who enjoy school A customer service-oriented culture where parents feel welcome and valued A schoolwide commitment to sustaining improvement efforts

This book examines how the 19th century’s transport legacy of bicycles, trains, ocean-going steamers, trucks, trams, buses and cars arose, creating numerous new technologies and markets. Nothing like this range of transport changes had occurred before, and the 20th century changes were incremental compared with those of the 19th century. The book explores where the key transport features came from, and why there were so many inventions, innovations, and inconsistencies. The Industrial Revolution was a key part of the process as it had strong links with transport developments. This text adopts a broad, global perspective, but has a strong British orientation, as the Industrial Revolution was a process predominantly initiated and implemented in Britain. Nevertheless, when the Revolution lost momentum, Britain began to lose its leadership. By century’s end, France and south-western Germany were dominant change-makers and the USA was appearing on the horizon. The book also highlights the many individual inventors and entrepreneurs who caused the dramatic transport changes, and notes that they did this predominantly through individual initiatives to satisfy personal, rather than corporate or national, goals and that they were often hindered, rather than aided, by officialdom.