IEPs and Assistive Technology

In my next few posts I will discuss the importance of assistive technology in the IEP process. 
Assistive technology can greatly benefit students with disabilities. AT can give students the tools they need to be successful in school. The IEP team determines the AT needs of a student through an assessment process. There are many questions to consider when determining what AT devices best suit a student. The Family Center on Technology and Disability lists the following questions to be considered: 

• What does your child need to do but is unable to do because of his/her disability?
  Make sure to consider these 5 areas of functioning: physical, communication, cognitive, social/emotional, academic.
• What are your child’s customary environments? 
  (Classroom, playground, bus, gym, school cafeteria)
• What are your child’s biggest educational challenges
  (Communication, mobility, reading, writing, behavior)
• What assistive technology tools are available to help your child overcome these challenges? 
  Make sure to consider both high-tech and low-tech options.
• What criteria will be used to later determine if the AT has been successful in helping your child in his/her educational program?
• What are your child’s preferences in areas such as color and style? 
  A child may resist using a piece of equipment that he/she thinks is “nerdy” and sets him apart from the rest of the class. A device that is less conspicuous may be preferred by the child in order to better “fit-in.”

After reviewing these questions the team will decide on the right assistive technology options that are available. The IEP must state the assistive technology that the student needs and why.

Resource: The Family Center on Technology and Disability