Melanie Thomas University of West Alabama Spring 2015 Assistive Technology Melanie Thomas University of West Alabama Spring 2015

What is assistive technology? Everybody deserves the opportunity to reach their full potential regardless of a disability. Assistive technology (AT) is any item used to improve the functional abilities of a person with a disability. With the aid of assistive technology students with disabilities are able to eliminate frustrations caused by their disability and focus on their strengths.

Assistive Technology and the Law The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) entitles eligible children a free and appropriate public education. In order to fulfill the requirements of IDEA, all schools must provide assistive technology devices or services as required by a student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP).

Assistive Technology and the Law The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) prohibits discrimination against anyone with a disability. ADA does not require the government or public to provide individuals with personal devices or services; however, devices or services must be provided if needed for an individual to use their programs and services.

Assistive Technology and Disabilities Types of Disabilities Examples of Assistive Technology Hearing impaired Seeing impaired Learning disabled Physically disabled Portable Keyboard Pencil Grip Calculator Voice Recorder Highlighting Pens Manual Wheelchair Timer Spellchecker Audio Books

AT for Hearing Impaired Hearing Assistive Technology (HAT) is any device that helps with listening situations. The most common HAT is a hearing aid or an implant; however, these are sometimes not enough in certain situations. Distance, noise, and quality of sound can create listening problems for the hearing impaired. HAT can help overcome these problems.

Soundfield Amplification System A soundfield amplification system amplifies the teacher’s voice in the classroom through speakers that are mounted on the wall or ceiling. Soundfield amplification systems typically consist of a microphone, amplifier, and one or more loud speaker. It is best to allow the hearing impaired student to sit close to the speakers for maximum benefit.

Soundfield Amplification System

AT for Seeing Impaired There is a variety of assistive technology to help the seeing impaired student complete tasks as easily as classmates who do not have a disability. The types of assistive technology can range from systems that require the use of a computer to handheld devices that are easy to transport.

Video Magnifier Students can use a video magnifier to project a magnified image on a screen. Video magnifiers are sometimes mounted on a fixed stand; however, the one pictured is handheld which makes it easy for the student to guide across instructional materials.

AT for Learning Disabled Reading, writing , and arithmetic are core values all students must master in order to be successful in the classroom; however, it is a challenge for students with learning disabilities. Difficulties related to retention, memory, and comprehension prevent learning disabled students from meeting the objectives in the classroom. Assistive technology provides a range of options to compensate for a student’s disabilities.

LiveScribe Smartpen The LiveScribe smartpen is a valuable tool for students who have difficulty with memory and retention. The smartpen records what is being said while the student takes notes. The student can click on a note and hear what the teacher was saying at the time of writing.

AT for Physically Disabled Assistive technology for students who are physically disabled enables them to participate fully in an educational setting. With the aid of assistive technology, physically disabled students can communicate with their teachers and peers. Assistive technology also includes tools that aid in mobility, eating, sitting comfortably, and exercising.

Roller II Joystick The Roller II Joystick is a replacement for a computer mouse. It comes with an interchangeable soft ball controller or handle. Students with physical disabilities can use this joystick to operate many devices such as computers or communication systems.

References Assistive Listening Devices. (2015). Retrieved January 23, 2015, from http://www.necc.mass.edu/academics/support-services/learning-accommodations/deaf-and-hard-of-hearing-services/student-resources/accommodations-tipsheets/assistive-listening-devices/ Dalton, C., & Hoyt-Hallett, G. (2013). Enablement through provision of assistive technology: case reports of two children with physical disabilities. British Journal Of Occupational Therapy, 76(2), 108-111. doi:10.4276/030802213X13603244419356 Haq, F., & Elhoweris, H. (2013). Using assistive technology to enhance the learning of basic literacy skills for students with learning disabilities. Internation Journal of Social Sciences & Education, 3(4), 880-885 Hearing Assistive Technology | Hearing Loss Association of America. (2015). Retrieved January 21, 2015, from http://www.hearingloss.org/content/hearing-assistive-technology No Limits to Learning: Build Your Own Virtual Driving Course for Training Joystick Driving Skills. (2013, January 9). Retrieved January 23, 2015, from http://nolimitstolearning.blogspot.com/2013/01/build-your-own-virtual-driving-course.html The IRIS Center for Training Enhancements. (2010). Assistive Technology: An Overview. Retrieved on January, 22, 2015, from http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/module/at/ Video Magnifiers. (2014). Retrieved January 22, 2015, from http://www.afb.org/info/living-with-vision-loss/using-technology/assistive-technology/video-magnifiers-221/1235 What is Assistive Technology? How Is It Funded? (n.d.). Retrieved January 22, 2015, from http://www.atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3859