AT What?

We all use various forms of Assistive Technology through out day to make our lives easier. These can include speech to text when composing an email, GPS to find our way, a calculator to add up our purchases, and using Siri to create a reminder for us-these are all commonly used Assitive Technologies that help make our day run smoother.

The Federal Definition of AT:

An assistive technology device is defined as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability. Exception. - The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of such device."

An assistive technology service is defined by IDEA 2004 as "any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device."

1. the evaluation of the needs of such child, including a functional evaluation of the child in the child's customary environment;

2. purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by such child;

3. selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices;

4. coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs;

5. training or technical assistance for such child, or, where appropriate, the family of such child; and

6. training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education and rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of such child.

Tools Commonly Used in Schools:

Post its

Highlighters

Graph paper

Raised line paper

Place holders

Slant boards

Pencil grips

Text to speech

Speech to text

C- Pen Readers

Scribes

Notetakers, voice notes, oral response

Enlarged text

Word Banks