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 What is assistive technology?
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Devices and services which enable students to achieve their potential.
Assistive Technology helps students write, communicate, read, study, play,
and achieve independence.
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 or any tool the student uses to do a task
more easily, faster, or in a better way. It can be a commercial product or
something someone makes. It can be a simple "low tech" devices such as a
pencil grip or an expensive "high tech" device such as a computer.
The legal definition of
assistive technology is, " ...any item piece of equipment, or product
system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or
customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional
capabilities of a child with a disability." (Authority: 20 U.S.C. 1401(1))
Why is it important for all educators
to be aware of assistive technology?
Assistive technology has the
powerful potential of impacting significantly upon a student with
disabilities by contributing to his or her learning, independence, self
esteem, and quality of life
Who benefits from assistive technology?
Any student with a disability from mild to severe may benefit from the use
of assistive technology. There is assistive technology to help an
individual with reading, writing, remembering, walking, sitting, seeing,
hearing and communicating, Any student who needs help with any of these
life functions may benefit significantly from the use of assistive
technology
For more information
on Assistive Technology services statewide, visit the WATI website at
www.wati.org
Go to CESA 8 Home Page  Go
back to Assistive Technology Page
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