Overview of Assistive TechnologyBy: Carmen Willings
teachingvisuallyimpaired.com Updated November 22, 2015 Any adaptive device or service that increases participation, achievement or independence for a student with a disability may be considered assistive technology (AT). Assistive technology helps individuals who are visually impaired (with and without additional disabilities) increase their access to the curriculum or job and improves their performance.
Assistive technology devices are available in a variety of categories to address functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. Categories of assistive technology include: academic and learning aids; aids for daily living; assistive listening devices and environmental aids; augmentative communication; computer access and instruction; environmental control; mobility aids; pre-vocational and vocational and vocational aids, recreation and leisure aids, seating and positioning, and visual aids.
The following are just examples of AT devices that may be considered. While not all devices are vision specific, the vision specialist will want to support the team in selection of devices that meet the individuals unique visual needs. For an overview of vision specific assistive technology vision the VI Assistive Technology page. Types of AT
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Overview of ATBasic Use
Problem solve
Braille Notetaker
iOS/Tablet
Audio
Video Magnifier
Basic Computer Use
Access
Windows Keystrokes
Word Processing
Productivity
Online
"Assistive technology device means 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 a child with a disability. The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of that device." -IDEA, 2004, Part A, Definitions, 300.5 |
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