ATP Assistive Technology Professional (RESNA) 3 — Questions and Answers
Question 1: Which term describes a symbol set that uses pictures representing whole words or concepts, commonly used in AAC systems for individuals with limited literacy?
- Orthographic symbols
- Logogens
- Aided language stimulation icons
- Aided symbols (Correct answer)
Correct answer: Aided symbols
Aided symbols (like PCS or Boardmaker images) are graphic representations that require an external tool and represent concepts rather than letter-by-letter spelling.
Question 2: A client with low vision reports difficulty reading standard print. Before recommending a magnification device, the ATP should first assess:
- The client's financial resources for purchasing a device
- The client's visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and preferred retinal locus (Correct answer)
- Whether the client qualifies for state vocational rehabilitation funding
- The brand reputation of available magnification products
Correct answer: The client's visual acuity, contrast sensitivity, and preferred retinal locus
A thorough functional vision assessment including acuity, contrast sensitivity, and preferred retinal locus guides appropriate magnification level and device type selection.
Question 3: Which type of switch scanning pattern moves the cursor through items one at a time until the user activates a switch to select?
- Row-column scanning
- Linear/automatic scanning (Correct answer)
- Group-item scanning
- Directed scanning
Correct answer: Linear/automatic scanning
Automatic linear scanning moves sequentially through all items; the user activates the switch when the desired item is highlighted.
Question 4: An ATP is recommending a dynamic display AAC device. Which feature is most important for a user who has difficulty with visual memory and organization?
- High-resolution color display
- Consistent page layout and visual scene navigation (Correct answer)
- Bluetooth connectivity to a smartphone
- Text prediction with customizable word banks
Correct answer: Consistent page layout and visual scene navigation
Consistent page layouts reduce cognitive load and help users with visual memory difficulties navigate reliably to desired vocabulary.
Question 5: What does 'universally designed' technology mean in the context of assistive technology?
- Technology approved for use by all insurance companies
- Products and environments designed to be usable by all people without adaptation (Correct answer)
- Devices that work on all operating systems
- AT prescribed for individuals globally
Correct answer: Products and environments designed to be usable by all people without adaptation
Universal Design refers to designing products, environments, and services to be accessible and usable by all people to the greatest extent possible without specialized adaptation.
Question 6: A person who uses a manual wheelchair presents with shoulder pain. As an ATP, what modification should be considered first?
- Switching to a power wheelchair immediately
- Evaluating wheelchair propulsion mechanics and optimizing axle position (Correct answer)
- Adding a friction coating to the push rims
- Prescribing heavier anti-tip casters
Correct answer: Evaluating wheelchair propulsion mechanics and optimizing axle position
Optimizing axle position to allow 100–120 degrees of elbow extension at the top of the push stroke reduces repetitive strain and shoulder impingement.
Question 7: Which outcome measurement tool is specifically designed to evaluate the impact of AT on the daily functioning of individuals with disabilities?
- Functional Independence Measure (FIM)
- Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST) (Correct answer)
- Barthel Index
- Berg Balance Scale
Correct answer: Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST)
The QUEST measures user satisfaction with AT device characteristics and AT services and is widely used in AT outcome research.
ATP Assistive Technology Professional (RESNA) 3
Which term describes a symbol set that uses pictures representing whole words or concepts, commonly used in AAC systems for individuals with limited literacy?