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Alternative Drive Controls
Speaker: Alex Chesney, OTR, ATP/SMS
General Info
Open to:
Occupational Therapists (OT), Occupational Therapy Assistants (OTA), Physical Therapy (PT), Physical Therapy Assistants (PTA) who are looking to advance their knowledge related to seating and mobility.
Course Date:
Tuesday, April 7, 2026
Time:
Course from 6 p.m. – 7:30 p.m.
Location:
Zoom online
Handouts:
Electronic handouts will be shared with all attendees prior to the course via email. Please print or download the materials prior to the course for your use.
Course Description:
This professional development session, Alternative Drive Controls, explores non-traditional drive input methods for individuals unable to operate standard joystick controls. Participants will learn about various assistive technologies including sip-and-puff systems, head arrays, chin controls, proximity switches, mini joysticks, and eye gaze integration. The course emphasizes key considerations such as motor control, cognitive function, sensory needs, and optimal positioning. Through video demonstrations and case studies involving clients with ALS, TBI, SCI, and CP, learners will gain practical insights into restoring independence via alternative access methods. The session also highlights assessment strategies, training protocols, and collaborative approaches with interdisciplinary assistive technology teams, including speech-language pathologists, occupational therapists, and assistive technology professionals.
Learning Objectives/Learning Outcomes:
Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:
Identify and differentiate among various alternative drive control technologies and configurations, demonstrating understanding of their suitability based on client-specific motor, cognitive, and sensory profiles.
Analyze client motor, cognitive, sensory, and positioning needs to determine suitable alternative drive control options during assessment.
Explain essential training considerations and safety precautions practitioners should incorporate when supporting clients using alternative drive controls to promote independence and occupational participation.
Assessment of Learning Objectives/Learning Outcomes
: Question and answer, course feedback form.
Instructional Methods Used:
Lecture, Discussion, PowerPoint presentations
Count Down Timer to Alternative Drive Controls
