1. I can do it
too!!!!
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Technology for Everyone
2. Assistive Technology
When technology is used with students with
disabilities the term used is Assistive
Technology.
Based on the Texas Assistive Technology
Network, Assistive Technology (AT) is any
device, system or piece of equipment, whether
acquired commercially off the self, modified, or
customized, used to compensate for a
student’s disability.
3. WHAT’S THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN
EDUCATIONAL TECHNOLGY USED IN
THE CLASSROOM AND ASSISTIVE
TECHNOLOGY?
4. Very Little if Any!
There may be a very fine line between
educational and assistive technology; they are
often interrelated.
Assistive technology is more personal to the
student
Educational technology is more classroom-
based.
5. Universal Design for Learning
Instead of focusing on educational vs. assistive
technology, the concept of "Universal Design for
Learning" is being developed.
A relatively new term, but it incorporates age-old,
basic principles of good teaching through different
modes.
It involves using technology that allows students to
access educational materials through their strongest
learning mode.
Provides equal access to learning, not simply equal
access to information.
It does not remove academic challenges; it removes
barriers to access.
6. Different types of
Assistive Technology
Hearing Aids
Personal FM units
Wheelchairs
Self propelled walkers
Talking Software
Communication Boards
Head Pointers
Modified Keyboars
7. Example devices for the Learning
Disabled (Reading, Writing and Math)
Writing
Word Processor: built in features such as
correction of spelling and grammatical errors
Student’s with issues with handwriting
Math:
Talkingcalculators
Electronic math worksheets
8. Example devices for the Learning Disabled
(Reading, Writing and Math), continue
Reading
Tape recorders for books on tape
Text Reading Systems
Reading Pens
9. Examples devices for Speech
Impairment
Students with speech impairments are
sometimes related to students with Down
Syndrome or Autism
Devices
used with these impairments will
supplement a child’s attempt to verbally
communicate with others.
Communication Board
Picture exchange communication system
Smart boards
10. References
Considering Assistive Technology in the IEP Process-
Resource Guide. (2007, February). Retrieved January 26,
2012, from Texas Asssistive Technology Network (TATN):
www.texasat.net
Jenron, J. (2011, October 14). AT and Learning Disabilities.
Retrieved January 26, 2012, from South Carolina Assistive
Technology Program: http://www.sc.edu/scatp/ld.htm
Marshall Raskind, P. K. (2010, February). Assistive
technology for kids with LD: An overview. Retrieved January
26, 2012, from Great Schools:
http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-
technology/702-assisstive-technology
