FAQs

Assistive technology refers to any device, equipment, software, or product system designed to enhance, maintain, or improve the functional abilities of individuals with disabilities. Assistive technology supports individuals with challenges in speaking, typing, writing, memory, pointing, seeing, hearing, learning, walking, and more. 

AAC stands for Augmentative and Alternative Communication. It refers to methods and tools used to help individuals with speech or language impairments communicate. AAC can include a wide range of strategies, from communication boards and picture symbols to high-tech devices like speech-generating devices (SGDs) and specialized software.

During the development of an individualized educational program, as required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), the IEP team uses a collaborative decision-making process that supports systematic consideration of a student’s possible need for assistive technology devices and services. AT must be considered for all students with disabilities as part of the IEP process, and if it’s determined to be beneficial, it is incorporated into the educational plan.

Assistive technology is closely linked to the concept of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), which is a legal right under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the United States. FAPE guarantees that students with disabilities receive an education that meets their unique needs and provides them with the opportunity to succeed in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). AT promotes equal access, supports individual needs, and helps ensure participation and progress for students with disabilities.

Assistive technology is closely linked to the concept of Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE), which is a legal right under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) in the United States. FAPE guarantees that students with disabilities receive an education that meets their unique needs and provides them with the opportunity to succeed in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE). AT promotes equal access, supports individual needs, and helps ensure participation and progress for students with disabilities.

Assistive Technology and UDL are both approaches aimed at making education more accessible and inclusive, but they complement each other in different ways. UDL encourages flexibility in the design of curriculum and instruction, while AT provides the specific tools needed to overcome barriers related to disability. When used together, they create a more inclusive learning environment that supports both students with disabilities and those without.

Yes, Assistive Technology can be used for students who do not have an IEP. While AT is often associated with students who have disabilities or those with an IEP, it is not limited to them. AT can be beneficial for any student, regardless of whether they have a disability, as it helps enhance learning and accessibility in various ways. For example, many schools integrate AT into their general education classrooms to support diverse learning styles. These tools can help students who may not have been formally identified with a disability but still face challenges such as language barriers, difficulty focusing, or slower processing speed.

When thinking about what Assistive Technology tools might be helpful for your student, a useful framework to consider is the SETT Framework, created by Joy Zabala. This framework helps guide the decision-making process by focusing on the Student, the Environment, the Tasks, and the Tools. By considering each of these areas, you can identify the most appropriate AT tools for the student’s needs and goals.

Yes, many mainstream technologies, including Chromebooks, laptops, and smartphones come with built-in accessibility features to support individuals with various abilities. These features are designed to make technology more inclusive, enabling people with different needs to access, use, and benefit from digital tools. Some of these features include: voice to-text, text-to-speech, magnification, color contrast and keyboard shortcuts.