Assistive Technology MATT GEOHAGAN ED 505/508
Assistive Technology Definition: Any type of technology that aids in improving the independence, self-reliability, or self-esteem of a person with a disability For persons with disabilities, daily routine tasks can be challenging. Assistive technology can greatly enhance their independent productivity. Assistive technology fits no mold. It can be as simple as a small magnifying glass or as complex as a computerized communication system. Source:
Laws Regarding Assistive Technology The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA): Federal law guaranteeing students with disabilities have their educational needs met by public schools. Specialized services must be outlined in the student’s Individualized Education Program. Furthermore, the law ensures students with disabilities will receive a free and appropriate public education in the least restrictive environment. The Elementary & Secondary Education Act/No Child Left Behind: Federal law that ensures students with disabilities reach the highest possible academic standards. When schools are assessed on their students’ achievement, NCLB guarantees the scores of students with disabilities are included alongside students without disabilities. Source:
The Americans with Disabilities Act Amendments Act: Civil rights law originally passed in 1990 that protects persons with disabilities from discrimination at work, school, and other settings. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973: Civil rights law that protects persons with disabilities from discrimination in programs and activities that receive federal funding. Source:
Assistive Technology for the Hearing Impared Semantroids Small 3-D animations that can produce sign language corresponding to a video or to what is being said in a classroom. Source:
Assistive Technology for the Visually Impaired Source: Video Enlargement Devices Video enlargement devices magnify small print and writing for those with visual impairments.
Assistive Technology for those with Learning Disabilities Source: Calculators Special calculators are available for people who have disabilities in mathematics. These calculators range from talking calculators to those specializing in specific areas.
Assistive Technology for the Physically Disabled Source: icles/fundingassistivetechnologypapers.jpg?la=en icles/fundingassistivetechnologypapers.jpg?la=en Mobility Equipment Adaptive mobility equipment provides those with physical impairments opportunities to participate in activities they wouldn’t be afforded on their own.
References Coin-U-Lator [Web Photo]. Retrieved from Learn the Law | Get Involved. (n.d.). Retrieved November 5, 2014, from Mobility Equipment [Web Photo]. Retrieved from dingassistivetechnologypapers.jpg?la=en dingassistivetechnologypapers.jpg?la=en Semantroid [Web Graphic]. Retrieved from The Family Center on Technology and Disability. (n.d.). Retrieved November 5, 2014, from Video Enlargement Device [Web Photo]. Retrieved from