by Krystal Paco

Guam - The Guam System for Assistive Technology is preparing to host a conference themed "The Evolution of Assistive Technology: Celebrating 20 Years of Making It Happen".

Former special education teacher and now Guam Legal Services Corporation disability law center advocate Michelle Cruz says devices like the iPad have streamlined their work.

"Now we're having things just as another example like the iPad and there are apps for that. So you have little kids who don't necessarily have to use their fingers anymore. We have iGaze. So they can just use their eyes looking into a little camera."

In addition to the tech toys, UOG CEDDERS assistive technology and special projects program coordinator Carla Torres says just like teachers and doctors need certification, so do assistive technology providers.

She said, "That's very important because individuals with disabilities in receiving services and being fitted for assistive technology, it's comforting to know that the people have the right credentials."

The conference is slated for March 28 the Westin Resort Guam. Call the GSAT office at 735-2490/1 to register.