Implementing Assistive Technology in School and Beyond 1

 Family Driven  Non-Profit 501(c)3 Family Network on Disabilities of Florida, Inc. (FND) is: 2

We DO: ♥Provide Support ♥Provide Information ♥Help Identify Options We do NOT: Act As Attorneys 3

WELCOME The purpose of this presentation is to provide some insights into how Assistive Technology is implemented and utilized to develop opportunities for individuals in school and beyond. 4

Assistive Technology offers the capability to achieve greater independence and inclusion. 5

"Any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition or use of an assistive technology device is defined as an assistive technology service." What is an Assistive Technology Service in the school system? 6

AT Services Evaluation Acquisition Selecting and Adapting Coordination Training As required in: Special Education Related Services Supplementary Aids and Services 7

What is an Assistive Technology device? Any item, whether commercially acquired, off the shelf, modified, or customized, that can increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of an individual with a disability (IDEA CFR 300.5). 8

Levels of Assistive Technology: Assistive technology devices can be classified according to levels of technology and life skill areas. 9

Low tech devices: Equipment that is easy to use and do not require electrical power. Characteristics: Strategies, methods and/or techniques’ that rely primarily on user's ability to move or utilize various body parts Can be free, no expense 10

Low Tech can be….. Knocking on a door Sign language; finger spelling Tapping or squeezing hand 11

Middle or Elementary tech devices: They include most battery-operated devices. Incorporates strategies, methods, and/or techniques with relatively simple materials and equipment Can rely on off-the-shelf inexpensive technologies Commonly simple Characteristics: 12

Middle or Elementary tech can be…… Pencil grip Slant board Page turner Raised line paper Non-tipping cups Velcro fasteners 13

High tech devices: Include complex and programmable equipment. Characteristics: Typically a mechanical and or hydraulic technology used to accomplish the user’s purpose I can be a combination of technologies 14

High Tech Can Be … Daily Living Aids Vision and Hearing Technology Mobility and Ambulation Computer Access Communication Tools Educational Software 15

Identifying Assistive Technology Needs NOT REQUIRED? NEED MORE INFO REQUIRED? ??? 16

STEP 1 Establish a clear understanding of the student’s present level of academic achievement. 17

Develop goals and objectives that address the student’s needs, and are aligned to the general curriculum. Step 2 18

Step 3 Determine what tasks, if any, are difficult or impossible for the student. 19

AT Checklist Vision Writing Hearing Mobility Communication Control of the Environment Reading, Studying, and Math 20

A Student’s Perspective What has helped me or made things more difficult for me? How has my disability created challenges? What specific AT devices or services have helped me to be more successful? How has the school system helped me to access the curriculum in a regular education environment? 21

When considering AT some questions that the IEP team can ask are: What are the Sunshine State Standards? Is the student able to complete them with accommodations? Is there currently AT being used? Would AT help? 22

Identify schedule for data collection. Step 4 23

Step 5 Decide whether or not AT devices and services are needed. 24

NOT REQUIRED? NEED MORE INFO Results of AT Consideration REQUIRED? ??? 25

More Information is Needed Determine the nature and extent of AT devices and services needed The IEP team decides that additional information is needed to: NEED MORE INFO 26

Documentation in the IEP The team requests an AT evaluation and documents the evaluation in the IEP as an AT service. 27

Assistive Technology is Required AT is required and the IEP team knows the nature and extent of the AT devices and services needed. AT devices and services to be provided, are documented in the IEP. REQUIRED 28

Documentation in the IEP The IEP Team anticipates that the student will not be able to make adequate progress towards mastery of the IEP goals and objectives without AT. The specifics of the devices and services must be included in the IEP. 29

Assistive Technology is not required at this time Best practices indicate that the basis of the decision is documented. NOT REQUIRED 30

Implementation of AT Don’t be afraid to ask questions Be open minded- “Collaboration is the key to success” Maintain a connection between school and home use of AT Share the responsibility 31

Develop and keep a resource manual Monitor and adjust the process Consider extended school year use Celebrate your successes Implementation of AT 32

NOT REQUIRED NEED MORE INFO REQUIRED Ongoing Process 33

Sources of AT beyond the school system! Medicaid Vocational Rehabilitation Social Security Private Insurance 34

FAAST Overview FAAST is a non-profit organization funded by the U.S. Department of Education Rehabilitation Services Administration (RSA) through the Assistive Technology Act of 2004 and the State of Florida Department of Education Division of Vocational Rehabilitation.

Web-based Loan Closet FAAST has developed a web-based statewide registry of loan closets to facilitate the use of used assistive technology equipment.

FAAST Statewide Device Lending Library This new program allows people to borrow assistive technology equipment for a 30 day loan period to try out in their own home or office environment.

THEMES & INFLUENCES Encourage the possibilities Honor the dreams of families Translate dreams into action Teach families to help others to understand their perspectives 35

“Where there was once an observer, let there now be a participant.” - Eliot Eisner 36

Thank You! (800) (727) Thank you! Please do not hesitate to call if we can be of any assistance to you.