Assistive technologies can range from "low-tech" to "high-tech" options to aid communication for those with autism spectrum disorders. "Low-tech" options include picture exchange systems, dry erase boards, and laminated photos. "Mid-tech" devices include tape recorders, voice output aids activated by touch, and language masters with recordable sound strips. The most complex "high-tech" options are sophisticated voice output devices that allow the user to create messages and produce synthesized speech.

1. Assistive
Technologies
ASPERGERS
SYNDROME

2. Assistive Technology
 Assistive
Technology
consists
of
various items in a continuum from
“low” tech to “high” tech.
 Various
types of technology can be
provided and used for the same
student based upon individual need
within a variety of activities and
environments.

3. Assistive Technology
“Low” Technology
 Any
strategies/interventions that are
not
battery
powered
or
electronically operated. “Low” tech
strategies are usually low in cost
and easy to use.

4. “Low” Technology
Picture Exchange
Communication Systems
 The
Picture Exchange
Communication
System
or
PECS
approach
is
a
modified
applied
behavior
analysis
program designed for
early
nonverbal
symbolic
communication
training.

5. “Low” Technology
Dry Erase Boards

A whiteboard is a nonelectronic variation of the
traditional
"rewriteable"
schoolroom blackboard,
but is white instead of
black and of a material
that can be written on
with
colored
markers
(known
as
dry
erase markers).

6. “Low” Technology
Laminated Photographs/
Visual Supports

Many children who have
autism find it easier to
process information that
is presented to them
visually.
These
visual
learners respond better
too and learn quicker
using materials such as
photographs, pictures, sy
mbols and objects than
they do from listening.

7. Assistive Technology
“Mid” Technology
 Strategies
that require the use of
batteries
or
basic
electronic
devices that are used primarily as a
means
to
support
expressive
communication.

8. “Mid” Technology
Tape Recorders

Basic tape-recorders/audiocassette recorders are a
helpful means of recording
class notes and, in the
workplace, instructions given
by one's superior; also, taperecorders are required to
play back taped books.
Listening to a taped textbook
while following along the
same material in printed form
is an effective multisensory
approach to learning.

9. “Mid” Technology
Voice Output Communication
Aids
 Equipment
that
records voice
and can be
activated by
touch. The voice
is often paired
with a picture
clue.

10. “Mid” Technology
Language Master
 Cards
with
recordable
strips
are run through the
machine
to
produce
sounds.
You
have
the
option of adding
pictures
to
the
cards.

11. Assistive Technology
“High” Technology
 Strategies
that are usually the most
expensive and complex to use.

12. “High” Technology
Sophisticated Voice Output
Devices

Speech Generating Devices are
portable electronic devices that
allow people using them to
create a message and produce
speech. These methods of
augmentative and alternative
communication (AAC) are used
as a communication system for
people with little or no speech.
They can assist both language
comprehension and
expression, helping to enable
Communication Access for All.