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In This Issue
Assistive Technology
Dear Friends and Family Caregivers,
This month's Special EDition provides information on considering assistive technology (AT) when planning for your child's education.
What is assistive technology (AT)?
The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) defines an assistive technology device as "any item, piece of equipment, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functioning of individuals with disabilities." Within the context of your child's education, an AT device can be used to assist your child in a variety of tasks, including writing, speaking, sitting, reading, and participating in classroom activities. AT devices range from low-tech objects like pencil grips, Velcro and magnifying glasses to high-tech screen readers, online textbooks, and vocal communication devices.
Including AT in an IEP
As part of the IEP process, the district is required to assess in all areas of suspected disability. A comprehensive assessment should include a consideration of how assistive technology might be used to support your child's educational experience. Think about your child's daily activities and his/her strengths and challenges in the school setting. From here, think about which activities your child could perform more easily with the aid of an assistive device. Throughout the process, it is important to consider your child's preferences, keeping in mind things like style and size. The team should work to find AT devices that your child is comfortable using day-to-day.
Providing your child with an AT device is only the first step. If the IEP includes a device that is new to your child, set up a trial period following the IEP meeting. During this time, collect data about how often your child uses the device, when during the day it's used, and whether the device is supporting your child in achieving his/her educational goals. Talk with the IEP team about what additional support and training is needed to ensure your child is able to effectively use the new equipment. For more high-tech devices, consider including a plan for training your child, teachers, school staff, family members, and even your child's classmates on how to use the technology. IEP goals should also reflect the presence of AT devices. For example, a goal might be that your child will use a computer to complete all written assignments and will be able to type 50 words / minute by the end of the school year.
Additional Resources
For a list of AT resources, visit the Alliance for Technology Access website, where you can search for organizations and AT services by location and type.
For examples of assistive technology devices, see the Assistive Technology Checklist provided by the Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative (WATI)
Participate in a National Family Support Survey:
If you are the parent or primary caregiver of a young person with disabilities between 12 and 22 years old we invite you to partake in a national research study by completing the National Family Support Survey being conducted by the FAST Project by going to:
Your answers to the questions on the National Family Support Survey are confidential and will help the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, parent centers, and researchers understand the information and supports families need to prepare for moving into adulthood.
The information you share is extremely valuable and may help to inform program development for youth with disabilities in the future. We encourage you to participate and greatly appreciate your time.
The Family Advocacy and Support Training (FAST) Project is funded by the Administration on Development Disabilities (ADD) as a Project of National Significance. FAST is a project of PACER Center in Minnesota in collaboration with Parent Centers throughout the United States and Territories and with the help of the University of Minnesota.
UPCOMING DREDF WORKSHOPS
REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED. SPACE IS LIMITED.
Understanding the Special Education Process:
An overview of the special education process, Section 504, and IDEA laws.
Date: Second Monday of the month, not offered in July or August
Next Offered: September 13, 2010
Time: 6:30 - 9:00 pm (Pizza included!)
Where: DREDF, 2212 Sixth St, Berkeley, CA
To Register: Contact Katie at (510)644-2555 or kkeil@dredf.org© 2010
Advocacy Tip of the Month:
Consideration of whether a student requires assistive technology is an important part of a comprehensive assessment.
Acronyms:
AT — Assistive Technology
CDE — California Department of Education
FCTD — Family Center on Technology and Disability
EPI — Emergency Preparedness Initiative
IDEA — Individuals with Disabilities Education Act
LD — Learning Disability
Related Links:
www.dredf.org
Parent Training and Information Center
Alliance for Technology Access
Assistive Technology: Assistive Technology for All Individuals with Disabilities (California Department of Education (CDE))
Center for Accessible Technology
Center for Implementing Technology in Education (CITEd)
The Family Center on Technology and Disability
Assistive Technology Assessment: More Than the Device, LDOnline
iTech: Assistive Technology Services at Parents Helping Parents
Combined Federal Campaign #11944
Support DREDF when you shop.
CONTACT DREDF:
info@dredf.org
www.dredf.org
2212 Sixth Street
Berkeley, CA 94710
510-644-2555