Course Descriptions
The following courses have been carefully crafted and purposefully sequenced to form a uniquely integrated program of study that links the human services aspects of assistive technology with those of assistive device engineering. Courses are listed in the order in which they are presented. Later courses build on earlier ones to provide a powerful, cumulative learning experience.
Three of the courses (identified below with asterisks) are offered in conjunction with the Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology (ATR) master’s degree program to foster interaction and collaboration between students in both fields of study. This mutually beneficial linkage is the most distinctive feature of CSUN’s pair of graduate-degree programs in assistive technology.
*ATHS 501 | Functional Biology and Design Innovation (3 units) This course provides a deep understanding of the relevance of biological systems, anatomical and physiological functions, and injuries and diseases to assistive technology. It introduces students to ways in which living systems can serve as inspiration for biomimicry in assistive technology. *ATHS 502 | Seminar in Human Characteristics in Relation to Usability of Assistive Technologies (3 units) This seminar investigates the basis of human function from the psychological and physiological perspectives and serves as a foundation for the design and development of assistive technology devices that will enhance the quality of life for users of all ages. ATHS 614 | Assistive Technology Across the Lifespan (3 units) In this course, students gain an understanding of the fundamentals underlying the application of assistive technology interventions in a variety of environments. The content provides an interdisciplinary exposure to assistive technology and prepares students for the design and application of assistive technologies to improve functional independence and quality of life across cultures and generations. ATHS 618 | Research Methods and Design in Assistive Technology (3 units) This course presents the various research methodologies used in assistive technology together with techniques employed for the collection, classification, interpretation and presentation of data. Ethical concerns are also explored. ATHS 619 | History, Law, Policy and Assistive Technology (3 units) This seminar investigates the history and development of assistive technology, its legal context, and public policy issues, which include how assistive technology is financed and made accessible as well as emerging concerns that will affect not only users but also professionals in the field. ATHS 621 | Assistive Technology Assessment and Outcome Measures (3 units) This course emphasizes the assistive technology assessment process with a focus on the end user. Students will examine the processes and procedures for assessing the strengths and needs of individuals, their environments, assistive technology options, user-training requirements, affordability issues, and obstacles that may prevent users from adopting or continuing to use assistive technologies. Lastly, the course emphasizes the establishment and measurement of outcomes. ATHS 622 | Counseling in Assistive Technology Service Delivery (3 units) This course enhances the understanding and practice of the counseling and human services aspects of assistive technology. The focus is on implementing an approach that is both multigenerational and multicultural. ATHS 623 | Medical Conditions Affecting Quality of Life (3 units) This course prepares students to design and apply assistive technologies by providing an understanding of the various systems of the human body as well as the impact that injury or pathology has on an individual’s ability to function within his/her chosen environment. Topics also include the etiology, course, prognosis and vocational ramifications of specific medical conditions – an appreciation of which is essential
for those who work with assistive technology clients. *ATHS 694 | Seminar – Current and Emerging Topics in Assistive Technology (3 units) This capstone seminar focuses on current and emerging topics in assistive technology. Students bring their shared learning experiences and individual insights to readings, case studies, problem analyses, presentations, demonstrations and discussions. ATHS 697 | Directed Comprehensive Studies (3 units) Prerequisites: ATHS 694 “Emerging Topics in Assistive Technologies,” satisfactory completion of all course work, and permission of the ATHS Graduate Coordinator. Preparation for and completion of written comprehensive case studies will fulfill the culminating experience requirement for the Master of Science in Assistive Technology and Human Services degree.
*Offered in conjunction with CSUN’s Assistive and Rehabilitative Technology master’s degree program.
