Assistive Technology
Assistive technology is a legally defined term that is a component of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Improvement Act of 2004. It is consists of two parts: devices and services. According to IDEA 2004, a device 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 a child with a disability." (IDEA 2004, Sect. 1401 (1)(A)).
An assistive technology service pertains to any ". . . service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device."
This website explores various assistive technology options for individuals with diverse disabilities. It offers options along the low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech continuum.
Low-tech devices are simplistic and non- electronic. Examples include slant boards, sticky notes, and reading guides.
Mid-tech devices are electronic, but usually are not complicated. Audio books, digital recorders,and calculators are examples of mid-tech devices.
High-tech devices are electronic and require training because they are often rely on computer technology. Some examples include laptop computers, iPads, and iPods.
It is imperative to consider the student's needs, environment, and the task to be completed should be considered before selecting the appropriate assistive technology tools.
An assistive technology service pertains to any ". . . service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device."
This website explores various assistive technology options for individuals with diverse disabilities. It offers options along the low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech continuum.
Low-tech devices are simplistic and non- electronic. Examples include slant boards, sticky notes, and reading guides.
Mid-tech devices are electronic, but usually are not complicated. Audio books, digital recorders,and calculators are examples of mid-tech devices.
High-tech devices are electronic and require training because they are often rely on computer technology. Some examples include laptop computers, iPads, and iPods.
It is imperative to consider the student's needs, environment, and the task to be completed should be considered before selecting the appropriate assistive technology tools.
Sources Cited:
Dell A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive technology in the classroom: enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (2nd Ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
IDEA: Building the Legacy of IDEA 2004. Retrieved April 14, 2004.idea.ed.gov.
Calculator. Retrieved April 14, 2013 from www.diytrade.com.
Slant board. Retrieved April 14, 2013 from www.funandfunction.com.
Dell A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive technology in the classroom: enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (2nd Ed.) Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson.
IDEA: Building the Legacy of IDEA 2004. Retrieved April 14, 2004.idea.ed.gov.
Calculator. Retrieved April 14, 2013 from www.diytrade.com.
Slant board. Retrieved April 14, 2013 from www.funandfunction.com.