Because assistive technology is essential for equitable access, students require direct instruction to learn how to use these tools efficiently and independently. Instruction focuses on helping students understand available technology, select appropriate tools, and use them effectively across environments. Assistive technology instruction supports independence, academic success, and lifelong access to information.

VI Assistive Technology

Students learn about assistive technology designed specifically for individuals who are blind or have low vision. These tools may include braille devices, screen readers, magnification tools, and accessible digital resources. Understanding assistive technology helps students and teams identify tools that improve access and support independence.​ ​Instruction introduces tools that support reading, writing, communication, and access to information. 

Assistive Technology Assessment

Assistive technology assessment helps determine which tools best support a student’s individual needs. The assessment considers the student's strengths and needs, the learning environment, the task, and the tools. Results help teams select appropriate tools that improve access and independence.​

Assistive Technology Instruction

Assistive technology instruction helps students learn to use technology tools effectively and independently. Students must develop skills to operate devices, access information, and use technology efficiently during academic and daily tasks. Direct instruction and practice are essential for successful use.​ Some students will need direct instruction in using assistive technology tools. ​
Assistive technology empowers students to access information, complete tasks independently, and fully participate in academic and daily activities. Through proper assessment and systematic instruction, students develop the skills needed to use assistive technology confidently and effectively.

Resource Access

Instructional articles on this site are open access and do not require an account. Free Members may access select free resources and goal banks. Downloadable printable resources, lesson plans, recorded presentations, and ECC instructional units are available to Premium Subscribers.

Full Article List

Guide: Start Here
Tools (VI Basics)
Plan: Referrals & Eligibility
Referral & Eligibility​ ​Medical Vision Information 
FVLMALow Vision Evaluations
Other Evaluations
Plan: IEP Planning
Plan: Collaboration & Accessibility
​Collaboration Accessible Materials ​Classroom Access Instructional Access Technology Access ​Additional Supports Service Delivery Models  ​
Teach: Compensatory Skills
Compensatory Skills
Concept Development ​Alternative Communication ​Emergent Literacy ​Braille Code
​Beginning Braille ​ Braille Fluency & Comprehension  Writing Braille ​​​Nemeth Code Instruction 
​​​Tactile Graphics ​Print Concepts ​​Abacus  ​​Organization Skills​ ​​Study Skills ​​Time Management
Teach: Sensory Efficiency Skills
​Auditory & Listening Skills ​​Visual Efficiency Skills ​​Optical Device Use ​Tactile Readiness
Teach: Assistive Technology 
AT Overview ​AT Use & Maintenance Braille AT ​iOS Instruction Audio Access​ ​Video Magnifiers ​​​Basic Computer Use Computer Access ​Productivity
Teach: Social Skills
Social Skill Basics​
Non-Verbal Skills​​​​ Verbal Communication Skills Cooperative Skills Identity & Self-Awareness ​Interactions & Relationships Managing Challenges & Safety
Teach: Self Determination
Teach: Independent Living Skills
Personal Care ​Hygiene & Grooming ​Personal Health Mealtime Skills ​​​ Food Preparation
Household Skills Clothing Management ​Money & Budget Shopping & Consumerism Phone Use ​Safety & Emergency Preparedness ​​Services & Community Resources
Teach: Orientation & Mobility
Teach: Recreation & Leisure
Teach: Career & Vocational
Printables
Free Resources​ Premium Resource Library 
Teaching Strategy Printables 
​Premium Program Printables
​Premium FVLMA Printables
​ECC PrintablesCompensatory Skills Printables
Sensory Efficiency Printables
Assistive Technology Printables
Social Skills Printables
Self Determination Printables
Independent Living Printables
Recreation & Leisure Printables
Career & Vocational Printables
Evelyn Jane Stories 
Learn: Teaching Strategies & Planning
Learn: ​ECC Units
Beginning of the Year Units ​​Fall UnitsWinter Units ​​Winter Units ​​Spring UnitsAnytime Units
Learn: ​Interactive Activities
Learn: Recorded Presentations
Learn: Complete Set Bonus ​