This presentation discusses assistive technology (AT) in the classroom. It defines AT as any item or equipment that helps individuals with disabilities increase their functional abilities. The presentation explains that AT is legally mandated and helps students comprehend materials. Examples of instructional AT tools discussed include overhead projectors, audiotape players, multimedia software, and computer hardware/software. The presentation stresses the importance of selecting AT based on each student's individual needs as outlined in their IEP. Examples of low, mid, and high tech AT are provided. Resources for educators on AT examples, information, and products are also shared.

1. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
IN THE CLASSROOM
A Presentation
By Scotty Rainwater

2. WHAT IS ASSISTIVE
TECHNOLOGY?
 “Any item, piece of equipment, or product system, whether
acquired commercially or off the shelf, modified, or customized,
that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional
capabilities of individuals with disabilities” (Cennamo, Ross &
Ertmer, 2010)
 Commonly referred to as AT

3. WHY DO WE USE AT?
 AT is defined in several legislative acts, including:
 Technology-Related Assistance of Individuals with Disabilities Act of 1988
(Tech Act)
 ADA of 1990 and 2004
 It’s the law!
 More importantly, AT assists students with disabilities in
comprehending and understanding materials that they may not
with other forms of instruction.

4. TYPES OF AT
 There are many different types of AT:
 Mobility and positioning aid
 Sensory tools
 Daily living tools
 Environmental tools
 Instructional tools
 Computer access
 Alternative and augmentative communication devices
 Motivational tools
 We are going to work on Instructional Tools!

5. INSTRUCTIONAL TOOLS FOR AT
 Here are some examples:
 Overhead transparencies and projectors
 Audiotape players
 Multimedia software and tools
 Internet technology
 Computer software and hardware

6. SELECTING AN AT
 Every student is unique!
 Developing an Individual Education Plan is important.
 The student’s IEP should include which AT is being implemented
and how that AT will assist in achieving the student’s educational
goals and milestones.
 So how do you select an AT?
 You must understand your student
 And you must understand available AT

7. LOW, MID, AND HIGH TECH
 Low Tech – typically non-electronic but can include less
sophisticated electronic devices
 i.e. – paper clips, sticky notes, shelf liner, etc.
 Also – calculators, battery-adapted toys, and talking picture frames
 Mid Tech – power sources and may require some training to use
 i.e. – CD players, augmentative communication devices, talking directories,
etc.
 High Tech – highly sophisticated, expensive, and have
multifunctional tools
 i.e. – computers, internet, some software programs, etc.
Not every student will be able to use every level of technology.

8. RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS
 Examples of AT for Educators
http://assistivetechnologyforeducation.com/examples-of-assistive-
technology/
Possibly the most valuable example of AT is the iPad or other tablet
device.
These devices have many functions including auditory
assistance, daily living assistance, computer access, software
usage, and motivational tools.

9. RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS
 The National Institute for Child Health and Human Development
has a lot of fantastic resources
https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/rehabtech/conditioninfo/page
s/device.aspx
 This includes general and “how to” information on AT

10. RESOURCES FOR EDUCATORS
 Center for Applied Special Technology
 http://www.cast.org/learningtools/index.html
 They have many AT products available for educators

11. REFERENCES
Cennamo, K., Ross, J., & Ertmer, P. (2010). Technology integration
for
meaningful classroom use: A standards based approash.
(pp. 150-158). Belmont, CA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.