"Best practices" for assistive technology (AT) are strategies that are most effective in helping students and staff use AT for increased access, independence, and participation in the school setting.
The AT process - from considering tools to implementing them in the classroom - is a team effort. Therefore, assistive technology is a shared responsibility that is facilitated collaboratively by IEP Teams.
The resources and links on this website are here to assist you and your team in providing appropriate AT tools and supports for your students.
The SETT Framework is a tool for collaborative decision-making.
There are four parts to the SETT Framework (Joy Zabala):
Student - Who is the student? Describe functional areas of concern, strengths, hopes, expectations, etc.
Environments - Where does the student learn and grow? Describe customary environments, barriers, supports, etc.
Tasks - What tasks does the student need or want to do to work toward educational goals? Describe participation, communication, independence, productivity, etc.
Tools - What tools are needed by the student and others? Determine appropriate technology, services, training, strategies, supports, etc.
Use the SETT template with key questions to guide your discussion.
The contents of this site have been adapted from materials that were generously shared in order to continue fostering innovation and excellence in the practice of school-based AT.
Resources and guidance generously provided by:
Bellingham School District, Technology for Diverse Learners, Linda Schleef
Mt. Vernon School District, Nicky Carubia and Susan Noste
Bellevue School District, Cathy Hoesterey and Rose Racicot
Burlington-Edison School District, Rebecca Ballard and Arie Werder
Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology (QIAT)
Special Education Technology Center (SETC) at CWU
Ershig Assistive Technology Resource Center at WWU
Education Tech Points, Gayl Bowser and Penny Reed
See Further Learning for more resources!