Assistive Technology Skills

Carmen Willings | teachingvisuallyimpaired.com | February 21, 2026

Assistive technology provides students who are blind or visually impaired with the tools and systems needed to access information, complete academic tasks, and participate independently in school, home, and community environments. These tools help bridge the gap between inaccessible visual information and meaningful access by providing alternative ways to read, write, communicate, and interact with digital content.

Instruction in assistive technology focuses not only on learning to operate devices, but also on developing the skills needed to use technology efficiently, responsibly, and independently. Students learn how to select appropriate tools, maintain their equipment, troubleshoot problems, and apply technology to support learning, organization, communication, and productivity. Each section provides practical instructional strategies, examples, and tools to help students develop independence and use technology effectively across academic and daily tasks.

Assistive Technology Overview

Provides an introduction to assistive technology and how it supports access to learning, communication, and daily tasks. Students learn about different types of technology and how they are used.

AT Overview

AT Use and Maintenance

Students learn how to care for, maintain, and troubleshoot assistive technology devices. Instruction supports consistent and reliable use of equipment.

AT Use & Maintenance

Braille Assistive Technology

Students learn to use braille technology such as braille displays, braille notetakers, and braille embossers. Instruction supports access to reading and writing through braille.

Braille AT

iOS Instruction

Students learn to use accessibility features on iOS devices such as VoiceOver, Zoom, and other built-in tools. Instruction supports access to apps, communication, and information.

iOS Instruction

Audio Access

Students learn to use audio tools such as screen readers, audiobooks, and recorded materials. Instruction supports access to auditory information and independent learning.

Audio Access

Video Magnifiers

Students learn to use electronic magnification devices to access print and visual information. Instruction focuses on adjusting magnification, contrast, and positioning.

Video Magnifiers

Basic Computer Use

Students learn foundational computer skills such as keyboard use, navigation, and basic functions. Instruction supports independence in using computers.

Basic Computer Use

Computer Access

Students learn to use accessibility tools such as screen readers and magnification software. Instruction supports efficient navigation and access to digital content.

Computer Access

Productivity

Students learn to use technology tools to complete assignments, organize information, and manage tasks. Instruction supports independence and academic success.

Productivity

Assistive technology empowers students to access information, communicate independently, and participate fully in their education. When students learn to use technology confidently and efficiently, they gain greater independence, improved access to learning, and essential skills that support success in school and beyond.

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Thank you for visiting Teaching Students with Visual Impairments. This site was created to support educators, families, and professionals who are dedicated to helping students who are blind or visually impaired succeed.

The mission of Teaching Students with Visual Impairments is to provide educators, families, and professionals with the resources needed to support students who are blind or visually impaired. The goal is to equip those in the visual impairment field with practical tools and instructional guidance that help students develop independence and become successful members of their communities.