An Overview of Assistive Technology

MNPS AT- Department Gerry Altieri- Exceptional Education Coordinator Heather Blalock- Speech-Language Pathologist Danielle Campbell- Speech-Language Pathologist James Claxton- Occupational Therapist Janelle Heathman- Occupational Therapist Vikki Vaughan- Vision Specialist We are located at : Academy at Old Cockrill 610 49th Ave North room 107 298-2172 x9

What is Assistive Technology? “Assistive technology is any tool or device that a student with a disability uses to do a task that he or she could not otherwise do without it or any tool that a student uses to do a task more easily, faster, or in a better way.” “It can be a simple “low tech” device such as a pencil grip or an expensive “high tech” device such as a computer” ( WATI- 2005)

Types of Assistive Technology Communication Motor Aspects of Writing Computer Access Vision Hearing Mobility Recreation/Leisure Learning/Studying Electronic Aids for Daily Living Reading Math Composing Written Material

Computer Access “Computer access is a term a describing a group of devices that allows an individual to operate the computer who would otherwise not be able to do so. Special devices provide access to computers for individuals who can not use the standard keyboard.” The Occupational Therapist is typically the most knowledgeable service provider when it comes to computer access.

Computer Access continued….. Alternative mouse/touch screen Alternative keyboard Switch w/ scanning On-screen keyboards Voice recognition software

Writing “Writing involves the physical ability to produce written language (motor aspects) and the cognitive ability to put words together to create written expression (composing). The Occupational Therapist is often the most knowledgeable service provider when the question is about motor aspects of writing. The Special Education Teacher or Speech-Language Pathologist may be helpful with composing.

Writing continued… Pencil grips Adapted paper Slantboard Portable word processor (Alphasmart, Dana, Neo) Pocket dictionary / thesaurus Talking word processor (Write-out- Loud) Word processing with writing support (Co-Writer)

Communication “Augmentative and alternative communication is a term used to describe items that are used to help a person communicate when their spoken communication is not effective.”

Communication continued….. The Speech-Language Pathologist is the most knowledgeable about augmentative communication.

Examples of Augmentative Communication: Communication board/book with pictures/objects/letters/words. Eye gaze board Simple voice output device (Big Mack; Talkables; Cheap Talk) Voice output devices with levels (Laptop Communicator; Communication Builder) “High-tech”/Dynamic display voice output devices (Dynavox; SpringBoard; Vantage;Tango!)

When is it appropriate? Substantial difference between the child’s receptive language and ability to expressively communicate Significant delay in expressive language that substantially interferes with overall functional communication. Speech is unintelligible.

Reading, Studying, and Math…. Examples: Adapted books (page fluffers) Changing text size/color Use of pictures with text. Books on tape Picture schedules Big key/talking calculators

Recreation and Leisure “Assistive technology for recreation and leisure can be a variety of things from adapted toys to computer games.” Switch toys; appropriate software PT is helpful to adapt PE classes. OT is helpful to adapt art classes and lunch.

How do I request an AT consult for a student? If you have already consulted with the appropriate service providers within your building, and still need assistance, ….. it may be time for an AT consult. Think in the following terms…”In which area or what task do I want the student to make gains?”

Continued… Complete an ICR form and attach current IEP If communication related- please complete with SLP If fine motor relate-please complete with OT Complete AT consideration form Send information to Linda Tribue-Barbee at Academy at Old Cockrill Room 110.