Assistive Technology

Assistive technology (AT) is "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" (IDEA 2004). IEP teams must consider whether an item, piece of equipment, or product can be used by a student to address a skill deficit that is related to a disability. If the answer is yes, that technology is considered assistive technology for that student and must be provided in all tiers of instruction.

IEP teams consider physical, sensory, learning, and behavioral skills. All these areas impact reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Below are some example technologies often considered by IEP teams.