Informational Guide 1

 Defines Assistive Technology (AT):  Device: Any item, piece of equipment, or product system used to Increase, Maintain, or Improve the functional capabilities of a child with disabilities (excluding medical devices surgically implanted or the replacement of such device).  Service: Directly assist a child with a disability in the Selection, Acquisition, or Use of a AT device.  IEP teams must considers AT as part of the IEP process. 2

 AT must be considered for all students within the IEP.  AT may be necessary for students to complete a task successfully.  No state laws/national standards for AT specialist or assessments.  District policies regarding AT vary across the state, but must be in compliance with the law and ensure students with disabilities are provided a free appropriate public education (FAPE). 3

 What tasks are difficult/impossible for child to achieve?  What accommodation/tools are currently being utilized?  Are there barriers when the child attempts the task? 4

 The School district must provide AT devices and/or services.  The School district is responsible for ensuring AT is made available to the child.  The IEP team  Attic (Detroit) Provide AT tools and support.  Michigan’s Integrated Technology Support (MITS) Lending Library provide trial periods (up to 8 weeks) which allows schools to borrow AT tools/resources. 5

 AT determined necessary must be documented in the IEP.  AT documentation should be made if AT is unnecessary.  AT documentation of process on goals and access to the general education setting as a result of AT must be documented.  Document if the AT will go home. 6

 IEP team must continuously assess AT and its effectiveness.  Data collection should be ongoing around AT (e.g., did it help?)  IEP teams must consider AT once a year during the IEP.  IEP team modify, make changes, and determine if a students is making progress in the general curriculum, and devise appropriate solutions to address any shortcomings. 7

 Everyone!  The Michigan Administrative Rules for Special Education (MARSE) indicate all professionals in special education have the necessary knowledge for effective practices related to utilizing AT to improve student outcome. 8

 Michigan Department of Education Office of Special Education: _ ,00.htmlhttp://michigan.gov/mde/0,4615, _ ,00.html  Michigan Alliance for Families:  Michigan Integrated Technology Support (MITS) Lending Library: 9