Assistive Tools in Special Education

1. How assistive technology is assigned to students

1.1. The IEP team defines the students needs and selects an appropriate tool to help enhance the student's learning experience. The school pays for these accommodations

2. Assistive technology is:

2.1. IS NOT: Any medical device such as a cochlear implant, or a pacemaker

2.2. IS: Handheld devices, slant board, focus card, etc.

2.3. Understanding Assistive Technology: Simply Said

3. Finding Assistive Technology

3.1. Each state has an assistive technology act program to help students find the assistive technology that meets their needs.

3.2. In Indiana: Government program helps people with disabilities receive assistive devices

3.2.1. Services include: Information and referral, consultation and assessment, demonstrations, training

3.2.2. Indiana Assistive Technology Act Project (INDATA) | Family Caregiver Alliance

4. Define assistive technology: A piece of equipment that will help a person with their everyday living.

4.1. How this can be useful for students with special needs.

4.2. Different tools used. Staff training may be required for some tools.

5. Different kinds of technology used

5.1. Low Tech Tools: Pencil grips, wide-ruled paper

5.2. High Tech Tools: Computer softwares, communication boards, talk to text softwares, word prediction tools

5.3. Introduction to Assistive Technology (AT) - Low, Mid, and High Tech

6. What is Assistive Technology (A.T.)