What is Assistive Technology

 What is Assistive Technology?



 What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology (AT) refers to any device, software, or equipment that helps individuals with disabilities perform tasks that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. AT can range from simple, low-tech tools like pencil grips to more complex, high-tech devices such as speech-generating computers.

The goal of assistive technology is to enhance the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities, enabling them to participate more fully in everyday activities, education, work, and social interactions. AT is designed to meet the specific needs of each individual, providing them with greater independence and improved quality of life.


Examples of Low, Medium, and High-Tech Devices


Assistive Technology can be categorized into low-tech, medium-tech, and high-tech devices, each serving different levels of complexity and user needs.







    - Low-Tech Assistive Technology includes simple, inexpensive, and non-electronic tools that can be used to aid daily tasks. These devices typically don't require batteries or electricity and are often easy to learn and use. Examples of low-tech AT include pencil grips, which help individuals with fine motor difficulties write more comfortably; white canes, used by individuals with visual impairments for mobility and navigation; and magnifying glasses, which aid individuals with low vision to read and see small objects more clearly. "Image Below"






    -Medium-Tech Assistive Technology devices are more complex than low-tech tools and may require batteries or some level of training. They often involve some degree of electronics but are not as sophisticated or costly as high-tech options. Examples of medium-tech AT include audio books, which allow individuals with reading disabilities to listen to books; talking calculators, which assist students who have difficulties with numbers and basic arithmetic; and portable word processors, which help students with writing difficulties by providing features like spell check and word prediction.


    -High-Tech Assistive Technology involves sophisticated, often computerized devices that can be    customized to meet the specific needs of users. These tools usually require more training and support and can be more expensive. Examples of high-tech AT include speech-generating devices, used by individuals who cannot speak to communicate by generating speech from typed or selected words; electric wheelchairs, which provide mobility to individuals with severe physical disabilities; and eye-gaze tracking systems, which enable individuals with limited mobility to control a computer or communication device using only their eye movements.


The Role of Assistive Technology in the IEP Process


Assistive Technology plays a crucial role in the Individualized Education Program (IEP) process by ensuring that students with disabilities have the tools and resources they need to access the curriculum and participate fully in their education. The IEP team, which includes educators, parents, and specialists, assesses the student's needs and determines which AT devices and services are necessary to support the student's educational goals.

The IEP process typically begins with an assessment, where the team evaluates the student's needs and identifies the types of technology that might help. Once the appropriate AT is identified, it is included in the IEP, outlining how it will be used, who will provide it, and any necessary training for the student and staff. The effectiveness of the AT is regularly monitored, and adjustments are made as needed to ensure it continues to meet the student's needs.


References:

  • Assistive Technology Industry Association. What is Assistive Technology? Link
  • National Institute of Child Health and Human Development. Rehabilitation Technology. Link
  • Understood.org. Assistive Technology: What It Is and How It Works. Link
  • Autism Adventures. Low-Tech, Mid-Tech, and High-Tech Assistive Technology. Link
  • Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services (OSERS). Assistive Technology 101 and the Assistive Technology Guidance. Link
  • Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology (QIAT). Guiding Document for Including Assistive Technology in the IEP. Link
  • Parent Center Hub. Assistive Technology and the IEP: Resources for Families, Youth, and School Districts During the IEP Meeting. Link
  • Children’s Hospital of Richmond at VCU. Image of Assistive Technology Devices. Link
  • Second Picture: Assistive Technology in Education PowerPoint. Link

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