Who should be considered for assistive technology (AT)?
According to IDEA 97 (34 C.F.R. §300.346) every student who has an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) must be considered for AT. This means that IEP teams must consider if every student has a need for AT in order to meet IEP goals and objectives.
Are there particular types of student who should be considered for AT?
Federal law requires that all students who have an IEP, no matter the type or severity of disability, should be considered for AT.
Are AT devices always high-tech?
No. Some devices are high-tech systems, such as computer devices. However, there are many other low-tech and mid-tech devices, such as visual schedules, communication books, pencil grips, digital recorders, audio books, voice amplifiers, and more.
Should AT devices be used beyond the school environment?
AT should be used across all environments that the student engages in. This expectation both supports learning and use of the AT device and aids in the student's needs being met beyond the school environment.