Assistive technology is a powerful tool that can help students with disabilities overcome barriers and facilitate learning. It can be used to improve functioning in the classroom, increase access to educational products, and provide students with the opportunity to reach their full potential. Low-tech devices such as calculators can be used to meet the needs of students, while high-tech tools such as text processing can help those with writing disabilities. Assistive technology is an essential component of an Individualized Education Program (IEP) and can be used in all aspects of life, from home to school to the community.
The purpose and benefits of assistive technology are easy to understand. It eliminates limitations and helps students access their right to adequate and free public education in the least restrictive environment. Special education teachers and administrators need the knowledge, skills, and competencies to effectively select and integrate assistive technologies into the curriculum. For students with developmental and learning disabilities, the need for technological assistance in education is even greater.
The Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA) defines assistive technologies as “products, equipment and systems that improve the learning, work, and daily lives of people with disabilities”. Examples of assistive technology include pencil grips, text processing tools, and computers. The use of these tools should be integrated into the curriculum and not restricted to a specific subject area or computer laboratory. When considering assistive technology for a student, it is important to take into account their individual needs.
Goals related to assistive technology should be determined on a case-by-case basis. Decisions about the use of the device or service in other settings outside of school should also be made on an individual basis. Technology has a major impact on education, especially for students with disabilities. A required course in special education programs was created to help students gain a deeper understanding of this impact.
Students who do not qualify for an IEP may still be eligible to receive assistive technology under the 504 plan authorized under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act.
