Assistive technology 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.” A device or piece of software only becomes assistive technology for a child when the IEP team makes that decision.
AT can be viewed on a continuum, from No Tech to High Tech, of tools and strategies that match a person’s needs.
In general, the IEP team should consider the simplest solution before moving to a complex device. However, that is not always the case. For example, communication boards are simpler than communication devices, but every child should have a voice. The identification and selection of AT should include considering what will have the biggest impact on functional skills, learning, and social/community integration.
The Assistive Technology Image Gallery provides an easy way to view some types of devices that are often used as assistive technology. However, remember that, basically, any item or product can be assistive technology if an IEP team makes that decision.