ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEVICES AND SERVICES Special Education Department Presenters Assistive Technology Team

Presented By: Alma Rodriguez, A.T. Coordinator Ricardo Martinez, VI/AT Team Leader

Session Objectives Participants will learn about: What is Assistive Technology? How is A.T. provided to students with a disability? Recognize examples of A.T.

IDEIA 2005 Section Assistive Technology Device …any item, piece of equipment or product system…that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

IDEIA 2005 Section Assistive Technology Service... any service that directly assists a child with a disability with the selection, acquisition or use of an AT device.

Assistive Technology Services Evaluation Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of the devices Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, retaining, repairing or replacing of Assistive technology devices. Coordinating and using other therapies, interventions or services with Assistive technology devices. Training or technical assistance for a child with a disability, or if appropriate, that child’s family. Training or technical assistance for professionals, employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise involved in the major life functions of individuals with disabilities.

IDEIA ’05 Federal Regulations Section Assistive Technology (b) On a case-by-case basis, the use of school purchased AT devices in a child's home or in other settings is required if the child's IEP team determines that the child needs access to those devices in order to receive FAPE.

IDEIA ’05 Federal Regulations Sec (a)(2)(v) Special Factors –Development of IEP… – The IEP team also shall… – (v) Consider whether the child requires assistive technology devices and services.

Categories for Assistive Technology Seating/Positioning Computer Application Environmental Control Augmentative Communication Assistive Listening Visual Aids Mobility Computer-Based Instruction Physical Education, Recreation, Leisure and Play Aids for Daily Living

Continuum from No/Low Tech to High Tech

“ How do we determine if AT is needed?”

Review evaluation data and present levels of performance. Establish goals and objectives. Determine if there are difficult or impossible tasks. Decide if AT devices and services are required and document. STEP 4 STEP 3 STEP 2 STEP 1 Texas 4-Step Consideration Model

Functional Skills Reading Written Expression Math Problem-solving Communication Recreation Daily organization Seating/Positioning Hearing Seeing Self-Care Mobility Behavior Specific task-related skills

Results of Consideration AT is required AT is not required More information is needed to make a decision

Thank You! Assistive Technology Program 1719 Farragut St