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“What is assistive technology (AT)?”
“What is assistive technology (AT)?”
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004 defines AT 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 the functional capabilities of children with disabilities."
"What is universal design for learning (UDL)?"
"What is universal design for learning (UDL)?"
UDL is an approach to education that attempts to reduce barriers and maximize learning for all students. The UDL Framework breaks it down into providing multiple means of...
Engagement
Representation
Expression
Educators who design lessons with UDL in mind will incorporate ways that all students can participate and learn.
"What is instructional technology?"
"What is instructional technology?"
Instructional technology is used to support curriculum, instruction and assessment. It is any technology such as Chromebooks, common extensions, document cameras, etc that are used by students in the classroom setting. Learn more at bit.ly/EdmondsITR
Instructional technology often refers to universally available technologies that can be beneficial for a wide range of students with diverse learning needs. The word ‘universal’ indicates both that these tools are widely available or somewhat ‘mainstream’ and that they are widely beneficial. Because they are related, or similar to, mainstream tools, they are relatively non-intrusive and ‘easy’ to learn and implement.
Together, universal, instructional, and assistive technologies offer a wide spectrum of tools to help meet the diverse needs of today’s learners.
“When does instructional technology become assistive technology?”
“When does instructional technology become assistive technology?”
When an instructional technology, UDL strategy, or a customized item is uniquely REQUIRED by a student in order to access a free and appropriate education (FAPE), then the item is AT. For example, a student listening to audiobooks is accessing intstructional technology. A student who needs audiobooks in order to access content is using assitive technology.
https://www.washington.edu/doit/can-information-technology-function-assistive-technology
If a student relies on AT, the AT must be included in the IEP and consistently provided in order for the student to make progress within the curriculum.
"What is meant by 'AT Considerations'?"
"What is meant by 'AT Considerations'?"
As part of the IEP process, IDEA 2004 mandates that the assistive technology needs of students must be considered by the IEP team. These needs must be documented within the section commonly referred to as "Team Considerations of Special Factors", under the Planning tab in IEPOL. To consider AT, the team must ask: "Does the student need AT in order to meaningfully participate and make progress in the general curriculum?"
“When is an AT assessment needed?”
“When is an AT assessment needed?”
Rather than a one-time “event” conducted by an expert or specialist, assistive technology assessment is best thought of as a collaborative process by which a team (e.g. IEP team) determines what technologies would improve a student's performance, participation, and independence. Accomplishing this relies on the collective knowledge and skills of the individual IEP Team members, each of whom has a unique perspective of the student and his/her abilities, level of performance, curricula, etc. both in school and at home. While AT consideration is generally a brief process, an AT assessment implies a more in-depth look at the student's abilities and needs for AT.
“What is an AT consult & how do I request one?”
“What is an AT consult & how do I request one?”
The aim of AT consultation is to identify tools outside of available options. It may also help to improve the implementation of available tools. Requests for consultation can be made via this form or simply by contacting the district-level AT/AAC Specialist/s.
Ideally, each IEP team has the expertise (knowledge and skills) needed to consider AT and/or they seek more information via online resources or supports at the building. For instance, if the team feels that they do not know what is available or how to use it, they may start by consulting the AT Toolkit and by seeking support from instructional technology coaches or related service providers (OT, SLP, PT) at the building. Even with consultation, the responsibility to select and implement AT still lies with the IEP team.
“How can I get [X] for my student?”
“How can I get [X] for my student?”
Many digital tools are available from the Chrome Web Store or Apple App Store and additional tools may be available upon request or with demonstrated eligibility. Equipment is available for loan during trials and, in some cases, long term use. Complete the appropriate form listed below to request specific tools or software.
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