1. An Overview of Assistive Technology

2. 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 x9

3. 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)

4. 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

5. 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.

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

7. 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.

8. 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)

9. 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.”

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

11. 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!)

12. 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.

13. 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

14. 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.

15. 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?”

16. 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.