Assistive Technology Matthew W. Loggins ED 505 – Educational Technology Fall 2014 The University of West Alabama

What is Assistive Technology?  Assistive technology is any device or service that helps a student with a disability to meet his or her IEP goals and to participate in the general education setting to the greatest possible extent. (The Iris Center for Training Enhancements, 2010)

Assistive Technology Legislation  The Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004 (IDEA) provides guidelines for the use of assistive technology. Almost anything short of surgical implants is considered assistive technology under IDEA.  Assistive technology implementation helps schools meet the requirement to provide all students a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). FAPE is a provision of IDEA. (The Iris Center for Training Enhancements, 2010)

Assistive Technology Devices  AT devices may be simple or complex. They do not have to be expensive or even purchased. Some AT devices can be made or modified from existing classroom materials.

Examples of Simple Assistive Technology Devices  Pencil grips  Planners  Slip-resistant surfaces  Calculators

Examples of Complex Assistive Technology Devices  Computers  Specialized Keyboards  Communication Devices

Assistive Technology Services  Acquiring devices  Coordinating professional services  Training stakeholders in the use of devices This is the “people” part of assistive technology!

IEP Team  Each student who receives special education services has an individualized education plan, or IEP. The IEP team, consisting of a special education teacher, administrator, general education teacher(s), parent(s) / guardian(s), and in some cases, the student, meet to determine the best approach to meeting the needs of the student. The IEP team determines what, if any, assistive technology is appropriate for the student.

Visual Impairment  AT might include:  Glasses  Magnifying glass  Large print materials  Braille  Audio materials  Special lighting

Hearing Impairment  AT examples:  Hearing aid  Headphones / microphones  Written notes, directions, etc.  Visual aids

Learning disabled  LD students require the greatest variety of assistive technologies because of the varied nature of their disabilities. Examples:  Written or computerized planners  Computerized tests  Learning software  Tactile games

Physically Disabled  Mobility issues may be aided by crutches, walkers, or wheelchairs.  Separate tables to accommodate space issues.  Pencil grips and non-slip mats for students with hand strength and coordination disabilities.  Computers or other keyboard devices for those unable to write.

Conclusion  Assistive technology includes both devices and services.  The IEP team should always look for solutions in the best interest of the student.  Assistive technology can be as simple or as complicated as necessary to meet the needs of diverse learners.

References The IRIS Center for Training Enhancements. (2010). Assistive technology: An overview. Retrieved on [November 1, 2014] from vanderbilt.edu/module/at/