Technical Resource Centre, Nova Scotia, Canada

"Each individual regardless of the severity of the disability should be given the chance, training, technology, respect and encouragement to participate and be an active citizen in the home, school, workplace and community."


1349 County Home Road PO Box 128 Waterville Nova Scotia B0P 1V0 Canada Tel: (902) 538-3103 ext:112 Fax: (902) 538-7022 Email: trc@nsnet.org



During the mid 1980's, the Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre's Learning Centre explored assistive technology possibilities for a range of clients with profound mental and physical challenges. In the early years, Apple II's, 286 PC IBM compatible, Unicorn Boards and switch interfaces was our adaptive computer focus. Environmental controls, simple technology and switch activated toys created more program options to train cause and effect, turn-taking, play and early communication needs. We have come along way since adapting toys and building switches. Our knowledge and experiences encouraged us to continue developing technology resources in the field of assistive technology. It has provided more ideas, options and opportunities to accommodate individuals with special needs in the home, school, workplace and community. In 1996, the Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre established the Technical Resource Centre (TRC), a family and professional resource centre. The primary focus of the centre was assistive technology and for the advancement of consumer and professional services. Located at the Kings Regional Rehabilitation Centre, the Technical Resource Centre is funded and supported by Community Support Services, the Department of Community Services and other partners and contributors. The TRC has conducted many presentations, demonstrations, workshops and inservices. Consultants have facilitated teaching and learning sessions, collaborated through consultations, assessments and networking while providing extensive resource and reference materials. An assistive technology loan program has also allowed consumers and professionals to move towards a better "planning and decision making" process through "best practices" that encourages appropriate, functional and cost effective technology interventions. Since its early beginnings in 1996, the Technical Resource Centre has continued to play a leadership role in various regions and agencies from around the province of Nova Scotia. As a community based resource, services have provided support to a number of professionals in support of children and adults of differing abilities and challenges. The TRC will continue to strive to be a comprehensive resource for technology ideas and product information, possible solutions and interventions as well as other innovations that may benefit citizens with a range of disability and health challenges in their everyday life. Our investment of knowledge and resources in assistive technology is in the best interest of all citizens who may one day in the future require technology solutions to overcome any one of a number of disability and health challenges.