AT, OT & Education

Agenda for Today What is occupational therapy Assessing for AT in schools Typing versus writing Choosing text production device Voice recognition software Other educational AT supports in schools Applying and the logistics of obtaining and using AT

What is Occupational Therapy Occupational Therapists look at the things we want to be able to do (occupations), the skills/resources we have, and the ones we lack, and looks at how best to increase independence with those goals. ( See for a proper definition)

Role of Occupational Therapy in AT provision Functional assessment and goal setting Awareness of the needs/expectations of the stakeholders Awareness of the individual’s changing needs related to function and how to adapt AT related to same.

Assessing for AT in schools Functional difficulties Expectations of stakeholders on AT Child and stakeholders familiarity with AT Assess child’s familiarity with AT Accessibility Sensory and physical challenges Emotional supports

Examples of Diagnoses supported in Secondary schools Cerebral Palsy Developmental Co-Ordination Disorder Chronic diagnoses like Pain syndrome Carpal Tunnel Syndrome Conditions related to Hypermobility Sensory disabilities Autistic Spectrum Disorder Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder

Goal setting Identifying with the individual their needs relating to functional independence: –Literacy support –Text production support –Access support –Identifying training needs and how to suit family/school staff needs within this

Typing versus Writing Child’s age Physical ability- gross and fine motor Cognitive ability Language ability Visual ability Remediation strategies trialled previously- Handwriting programmes

Laptop - Word Processor- Netbook Physical needs Cognitive needs (especially organisation) Visual needs Age Attitude towards device Weight and transportability Ergonomics Frequency and location of use

Computer Ergonomics

Voice Recognition Software Suitable users must have a consistent speech pattern & patience Good language skills Computer skills must be reasonable for independent use Long term option Limited program choice Limited locations where it maybe used (funding?) High specification of technology required Extensive training required (25-30 hours) Questionable use for examinations

Other AT supports in Education Literacy supports –Spell checkers –Word prediction Text to speech –Reading books and recording notes for MP3 Organisation software-mind maps

Applying for AT in schools OT/AT assessment report Principal fills our application form on NCSE website. Circular for secondary schools relating to AT M14/05. This notes the responsibilities of the school and the family.

Logistics of using AT in secondary schools Accessibility Storage Transportation Emotional support Training Accommodations for Examinations

Discussions with the student around what they want and expect from AT is one of the most important aspects. What are the motivations around the AT referral? Who made the AT referral? Motivation

Any Questions? Suzanne Bradley Senior Occupational Therapist School Age Team, Blackberry Park, Limerick