Assistive technologies are any items or equipment that are used to increase the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. The purpose is to provide tools to allow individuals with disabilities to work independently. Benefits include students becoming independent learners, acquiring skills to be successful adults, and giving a more accurate sense of what students can achieve. However, research shows that many teachers lack training in effectively using assistive technologies and that minimal services are provided outside of school. Federal and state laws govern assistive technologies and penalties exist for non-compliance.

1. Assistive Technologies
Lisa O’Neil

2. We will look at assistive technologies and discuss
What are they?
Purpose
Benefits
Research
Why do I need to know?

3. The term was originally defined
by the Individuals with
Disabilities Education Act of
1990 (IDEA) and was updated in
2004 with the Individuals with
Disabilities Education
Improvement Act
.

4. As new disabilities are
recognized, the laws will continue to
change making it important to know
and understand them.

5. 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 children
with disabilities.
Public Law

6. Purpose
To provide individuals with
disabilities the tools they need to
work quickly, easily, and
independently.
NO FEAR

7. What the benefits?
Students become independent learners
Skills acquired will be used to help them be
successful adults.
Gives a more accurate sample of what
students can achieve
Helps students to become like their peers

8. We can help students to stand alone by
giving them the opportunity to be
successful.

9. Research
Many teachers lack adequate training on how to
use assistive technologies effectively with students.
Minimal compliance in providing services outside
the school environment
Assistive technologies usage is getting more
attention leading to improved services for students

10. Federal Laws
State Laws
Penalties
Morals and Ethics
Certification revocation
--------------------

11. Resources
http://www.newton.k12.ks.us/tech/assist.htm
http://gpat.org/Georgia-Project-for-AssistiveTechnology/Pages/Assistive-Technology-Definition.aspx
http://www.avl.lib.al.us/resources/display_resources.php
http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/504faq.html
http://nichcy.org/laws/idea

12. Contact Information: Lisa O’Neil
Media Specialist
Stephens Elementary