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Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology . Leveling the playing field. Presented by Jennifer Izzo. Some definitions….

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Assistive Technology

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  1. Assistive Technology Leveling the playing field Presented by Jennifer Izzo

  2. Some definitions…. • An Assistive Technology Device is defined as “any piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of children with disabilities. (IDEA 300.5)

  3. This includes… • Low tech devices such as pencil grips, book marks, customized seating. • Elementary tech devices such as switches, calculators, spell-checkers, and other battery-operated devices. • High tech devices such as computer systems and programs and augmentative communication systems.

  4. More Definitions…. An Assistive Technology Service is “any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. Such term includes- • (A) the evaluation of the needs of an individual with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the individual in the individual's customary environment; • (B) purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by individuals with disabilities; • (C) selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing of assistive technology devices; • (D) coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs; • (E) training or technical assistance for a child with disabilities, or, where appropriate, that child’s family; and • (F) training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education and rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of children with disabilities”(IDEA 300.6).

  5. AT Levels the Playing Field • Advances in the development and use of assistive technology have allowed students with disabilities equal access to curriculum, improved student achievement, and improved quality of life. Use of assistive technology “levels the playing field” and promotes independence both in and out of the classroom. • Assistive technology is available in most institutions of higher learning and can be used to increase employability after school. Thus, the use of assistive technology promotes lifelong independence and prepares students with disabilities for the world outside of school.

  6. AT Must be Considered for All IEP Students! • The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) states in Section 300.346(a)(2)(v) that the CSE shall “consider whether the child requires assistive technology devices and services.” • Consider is defined in the American Heritage Dictionary as “to think carefully about, to form an opinion about, or to look at thoughtfully.”

  7. WATI Form • In order to facilitate this process, the CSE will fill out WATI Assistive Technology Consideration Guide. This form will become part of the student’s file as a record that AT was considered.

  8. Adding AT to IEP’s • AT should be added using general terms, not specific products. Examples…. • Alternate Input • Alternate Keyboard • Keyboard Additions • Switches and Switch Software • Voice Recognition Systems • Optical Character Recognition Software and Scanners • Pointing and Typing Aids • Touch Screens • Mouse Alternative • Arm and Wrist Supports

  9. Alternate Output • Talking Word Processors • Large Print Word Processors • Compatible Visual Displays • Braille Embossers • Braille Translators • Refreshable Braille Displays • Screen Readers • Screen Magnification Software • Scan/Read Software

  10. Processing Aids • Word Prediction Programs • Reading Comprehension Programs • Reading Tools • Writing-Composition Programs • Electronic Reference Tools • Specialized Products • Augmentative and Alternative Communication Products • Closed-Circuit Televisions • Note Takers • GPS • Assistive Listening Devices

  11. AT Services • Use of AT is an ongoing process, as technology changes very rapidly, and student’s needs change over time. • It must be considered whether regular consultation with the student, teachers, and therapists needs to be added as an AT service. This includes time for training, upkeep of equipment, integration into curriculum and technical assistance (IDEA 300.6)

  12. Scan and Read • Our most commonly used AT program at Pioneer is Kurzweil 3000. This is available throughout the district as well as our public libraries. • Many colleges offer Kurzweil as well, including GCC, which lists the program on their website.

  13. Kurzweil Demo • Please watch this quick video demo. Demo video • Now try it on your own….use the directions given on your handout to complete the assignment. Please raise your hand if you have questions!

  14. How else can Kurzweil be used? • Kurzweil can be used to provide access to books for those with physical limitations, with the exception of blindness. • Kurzweil has shown to be effective for ADHD students. • Other ideas???

  15. Voice Recognition Software • Our second most widely used AT program is Dragon Naturally Speaking. This is a program that allows the user to speak to the computer, and the program will write what is said. • For some students, much training is required, but the benefits are great. • Voice files created in school can be transferred to a USB or other portable drive, then given to the student upon graduation for future use. • Dragon can be used with any program in which writing is involved, included MS office as well as Kurzweil.

  16. Why use Dragon? • There are other programs available, including a word recognition program through MS Office, and the new Windows Vista. • The limitations are that they are not as accurate, not as user friendly, and they do not have portability.

  17. Dragon Demo • Please watch the following demo: Dragon Demo

  18. What can Dragon be used for? • Students with poor handwriting or who fatigue physically. • Students with poor spelling/phonics skills. • Students who struggle to get their thoughts down. • Students with mild speech impediments as part of speech therapy. • Others??????

  19. Where Do We Go From Here? • Please go to back to Mrs. Izzo’s homepage, and go to the AT Wiki. • Make yourself a log-in, and make some comments on what you think! A discussion has already been started!

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