University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is one of the sixty-eight University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service (UCEDD) working toward a vision of self-determination, independence, productivity, and community inclusion for people with disabilities throughout the lifespan. UCEDDs are funded by the Administration for Community Living, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Learn more about UCEDDs.

TechOWL—Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Act Program

The Institute is home to Pennsylvania's Assistive Technology Act (AT Act) program, TechOWL. The AT Act of 2004 specifies the statewide activities required of programs receiving funds under Section 4 of the AT Act. These include four activities designed to help people with disabilities, their families, service providers, and others access and acquire assistive technology devices: device demonstration, device lending, state financing, and device reuse.

Our Vision

A society where all people are valued and respected, and where all people have the knowledge, opportunity and power to improve their lives and the lives of others.

Our Mission

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University learns from and works with people with disabilities and their families in diverse communities across Pennsylvania to create and share knowledge, change systems and society, and promote self-determined lives so that disability is recognized as a natural part of the human experience.

Guiding Beliefs

The work of the Institute on Disabilities incorporates the following beliefs:

• All people have value and should be treated with respect.
• Everyone deserves the opportunity and support to lead a self-determined life in inclusive communities.
• We are all interdependent.
• Diversity drives, informs and enriches our work.
• Knowledge empowers people to make informed choices.

Current Priorities and Activities

A guide to the Institute on Disabilities' current priorities and activities.

Five-Year Plan

Read our federally approved 5-year plan, detailing our goals and objectives for the years 2023 through 2027.