Assistive Technology (A.T.)
Definition: "Assistive technology" can refer to a service or equipment. It means any item or piece of equipment which increases, maintains or improves the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities. A.T. may be as simple as a pencil grip or a home-made slant board, or as complex as a communication device or adapted computer. It is the means by which tasks are accomplished or learned, an on-going team process. Staff inservicing, effective implementation and documentation are all components of assistive technology.
Common areas where A.T. can be applied:
- positioning/mobility
- visual aids
- assistive listening
- augmentative/alternative communication
- environmental control
- physical education, recreation/leisure, play self-care
- vocational
- computer
access/computer-based instruction
| Our Assistive Technology services include: | |
| Inservices - offered regionally or we can assist local staff in arranging workshops | |
| A.T. mailings (Nov/April) - sent to key staff across the 10 county region | |
| Consultative
resources - on-site, by phone, e-mail, or during autism consults. Procedures are determined by each member district/special education cooperative director or designated contact |
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| Loan
library (Requires Adobe Reader - download for free here) books/manuals/videos/limited devices |
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| Networking Opportunities - offered regionally and locally. Topics include A.T. and A.A.C. | |
Guide
to Low-Cost / No-Cost Online Tools for People with Disabilities (2005) - To view this extensive resource organized by category, click here. |
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| *Note: N.I.A. does not conduct A.T. evaluations; however, may participate as team members in local evaluations with district/special education cooperative teams. | |
| Contact Information | |
| Mary
K. Brennan (815) 895-9227 |
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