1. Assistive Technology in the classroom

2. What is assistive technology? According to the United States Assistive Technology Act of 1998:According to the United States Assistive Technology Act of 1998: Any “product, device, or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that is used to maintain, increase, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."Any “product, device, or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that is used to maintain, increase, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities."

3. Types of Assistive Technology Assistive technology is classified according to the task for which it enables a child with a disability to perform:Assistive technology is classified according to the task for which it enables a child with a disability to perform: Seating and PositioningSeating and Positioning Activities of Daily LivingActivities of Daily Living Environmental ControlsEnvironmental Controls MobilityMobility Assisted LivingAssisted Living Visual AidsVisual Aids Augmentative CommunicationAugmentative Communication Physical Education, Leisure, and PlayPhysical Education, Leisure, and Play ReadingReading WritingWriting Computer AccessComputer Access http://www.monarchcenterforautism.org/assistive-technology/types

4. Examples of Assistive Technology Low Tech: Pencil gripsPencil grips Tactile rulersTactile rulers White boardWhite board Enlarged textEnlarged text X-Y stampX-Y stamp Mid Tech: Time TimerTime Timer NeoNeo Speaking Homework WizSpeaking Homework Wiz Talking Photo AlbumTalking Photo Album High Tech: Key Guard Inspiration Text-to-Speech Text readers Online Virtual Manipulatives http://www.assistivetechnology.vcu.edu/files/mt/2/AT_Continuum_Generic10_06.pdf

5. How does my student qualify? “The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states that the school districts must consider assistive technology for any child in special education.“The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states that the school districts must consider assistive technology for any child in special education. The education team must ask if there is a device that will “increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities” of that child.The education team must ask if there is a device that will “increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities” of that child. A qualified evaluator must complete an assistive technology evaluation.A qualified evaluator must complete an assistive technology evaluation. If the evaluator recommends a device, it must be acquired.If the evaluator recommends a device, it must be acquired. If training is necessary, it must be provided.”If training is necessary, it must be provided.”http://www.pbs.org/parents/education/learning-disabilities/strategies-for-learning-disabilities/assistive-technology/