Assistive Technology

Jami Weekley

Explanation of Assistive Technology

Assistive technology (AT) is any tool that helps students with disabilities do things more quickly, easily or independently. It can be elaborate and expensive or simple and low-cost. Assistive technology services are supports for using assistive technology devices, such as assistive technology evaluations, equipment maintenance, technical assistance, demonstration or training.

Explanation of Assistive Technology

A student with poor vision might use enlarged text. A student with motor difficulties might use an enlarged, simplified computer keyboard. A non-verbal student can be the “caller” for a game of “Red Light/Green Light” by using a talking switch. A student who can comprehend history at the 6th grade level, but can read only at the 3rd grade level, might read a textbook with the help of a computer that scans and reads text.

Explanation of Assistive Technology

The flexibility of assistive technology allows a teacher to build tools and materials that address students’ strengths as well as their weaknesses. For students with disabilities that interfere with their communication, learning, social relationships or active participation, assistive technology supports their participation in learning experiences in the least restrictive environment.

Alabama Law and Assistive Technology

• Federal and state law require an IEP Team to consider a child's need for Assistive Technology.

• Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP) provides advocacy services to persons with disabilities who need assistive technology devices and/or assistive technology services.

• The Alabama Assistive Technology Program (STAR) seeks to increase the provision of, access to, and funding for assistive technology.

Assistive Technology for the Hearing Impaired

Personal FM/Digital Systems

FM and digital assistive listening systems transmit sound wirelessly, and are great for listening assistance in situations where the speaker is a distance away from listener, such as in a classroom.

Assistive Technology for the Seeing Impaired

Closed Circuit Magnification

Closed circuit magnification is a device that enlarges words and pictures on a screen that makes them easier to view.

Assistive Technology for the Learning Disabled

Alternative Keyboards These programmable keyboards have special overlays that customize the appearance and function of a standardkeyboard.  Students who have LD or have trouble typing may benefit from customization that reduces input choices, groups keys by color/location, and adds graphics to aid comprehension.

Assistive Technology for the Physically Disabled

Eye Tracking Devices can be a powerful alternative for individuals with no control, or only limited control, over their hand movements. The device follows the movement of the eyes andallows the person tonavigate through the web with only eye movements. Special software also allows the person to type.

ReferencesAn Overview of Assistive Technology | Assistive Technology | At School. (n.d.). National Center for Learning Disabilities. Retrieved August 27, 2014, from http://www.ncld.org/students-disabilities/assistive- technology-education/overview-assistive-technology

Assistive technology for kids with LD: An overview. (n.d.). GreatSchools. Retrieved August 28, 2014, from http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/702-assistive-technology-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities-an-overview.gs