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Assistive Technology • Arderius Larkins • ED 505 • Technology in Education 1
What is Assistive Technology? • Assistive Technology is 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. It can be anything from a simple device, such as a magnifying glass, to a complex device, such as a computerized communication system. 2
Assistive Technology and The Law • The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) requires states to provide a free and appropriate public education, including related services, for all children with disabilities. This law recognizes that children with disabilities may need assistive technology devices and services to help them receive an education equal in quality to that of other children. • Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act requires the removal of barriers that prevent students with disabilities from participating in higher education. 3
Types of Assistive Technology • Assistive Listening Device • (ALD) – an ALD, which is a technology that has been around since the 1800s, actually enhances residual hearing for students with HI, allowing them to hear sounds and volumes that they otherwise could not detect. ALD 4
Types of Assistive Technology • Screen Reader • software program that works in conjunction with a speech synthesizer to provide verbalization of everything on the screen including menus, text, and punctuation. Screen Reader 5
Types of Assistive Technology • Audio Books • recorded books allow users to listen to text and are available in a variety of formats, such as audiocassettes, CDs, and MP3 downloads. Special playback units allow users to and search and bookmark pages and chapters. Subscription services offer extensive electronic library collections. • Audio Books 6
Types of Assistive Technology • Adjustable Monitors and Keyboards • Adjustable equipment or furniture for access, seating, or mobility may be considered for a student or individual. Adjustable monitors, keyboards, keyboard trays, large-font keyboards, adjustable tables and chairs, modifications and adaptations to wheelchairs and mobility equipment. All aspects of equal access should be considered. • Adjustable Monitors/Keyboard 7
References • Stanbery, K. (n.d.). Assistive technology for kids with learning disabilitites. Retrieved from www.readingrocket.org • Belson, S. (n.d.). Assistive technology for students with hearing impairments. Retrieved from www.sped.wikidot.com • Assistive technology in the classroom. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.sc.edu/scatp/atclassfact 8