Introduction to Assistive Technology (AT)

2/15/06

Definition of AT Device

• Assistive or Adaptive Technology commonly refers to "...products, devices or equipment, whether acquired commercially, modified or customized, that are used to maintain, increase or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities...", according to the definition proposed in the Assistive Technology Act of 1998

Examples:

• Pencil grips and specialized paper

• Computers

• Wheelchairs

• Speech Generating Devices

• Highlighters

• Adapted spoons, scissors, toys, etc.

• Hearing aids

Definition of AT Services

• “…any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.”

Examples:

• Funding

• Maintenance and repair

• Training/Instruction

• Introduction of the device

• Trial use and data collection

• Device transfer at times of transition

Universal Design for Learning (UDL)

• www.cast.org

• Universal Design for Learning slides

Perspectives on Assessment

• Data-based• Student interview

– “Hey, Can I try that?” www.wati.org– “Personal Choices”

www.onionmountaintech.comPrepared assessment protocolsSETT frameworkContinuous use of data

Transfer of AT at times of Transition

• www.aea9.k12.ia.us/assistivedwlds.html

Light Technology (Low Tech) Examples:

Pencil gripsAdapted rulersHighlighter tapeCommunication boardsSpecialized paperNCR paper

High Technology Examples:

• Speech Generating Devices (Augmentative and Alternative Communication [AAC]; Voice Output Communication Aid [VOCA]0

• Digital recorders• Computers for text to speech• Computer for speech to text (speech

recognition) Demonstration

Examples of AT from specific categories

Daily living and recreation

• Infrared lock

• Switch-activated CD player

• Switches for control of electrical items and computers

Expressive Communication

• Single entry and sequential entry communication device

• Mid-level communicaiton devices

• Full-language communication devices

• Boardmaker

Academic Support

• Written expression– Predictive software (e.g. CoWriter)– Onscreen keyboard– Homophone support– Slide shows (BuildAbility)

Information Organization

• Outline software

• Pencil/paper or computer graphic organizers

• Note cards

• Web organization

Note-Taking

• Letter Practice (StartWrite)

• NCR Notebooks

• Fill-in-the-blank study guides

• Various types of special paper

• Whiteboard captures

Research/Reports

• Organization of research (Read and Write Gold Fact Folder)

• Organization of research (low-tech cards)

Prepared Forms

• Templates (Word)

• Telephone notepads

Study Skills

• Highlighter functions (e.g. Kurzweil)

• Removable highlight tape and highlighters

• Dictionary (e.g. WYNN)

Math

• Calculators (Talking Calculators/large keys)• Computer calculator versions• IntelliTools products• Graph paper• Math Star• Manipulatives• Adapted rulers• BlockCad

Reading

• Interactive Story Books

• Scan and Read text support

• Start to Finish Books

• File conversion (text to MP3)

Computer Adaptations

• Accessibility features (Windows)

• Easy Access (Macintosh)

• Alternate Keyboards

• Alternate Mice

• Positioning (easels)

• Portable word processing (e.g. Dana)

Mobility

• Room design• Powered mobility• Manual chairs• Support• Vision-related mobility aids (make it

auditory)• Hearing-related mobility aids (make it

visual)

Hearing

• Room amplification

• FM systems

• Personal aids/accessories related to the Cochlear Implant (but not the implant itself!)

Vision

• Colored screens and contrast• Reading Guides• Magnifiers• Visual accommodations in computer programs

– Color; size; spacing; font type– Speed of reading– Word presentation (word, sentence, paragraph)

Cool Websites

• North Pole http://www.northpole.com/Clubhouse/Games/ and www.northpole.com

• Bubble Wrap http://www.aea9.k12.ia.us/05/at_mouse_skills.php

• Priory Woods– http://

www.priorywoods.middlesbrough.sch.uk/