1. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Assistive technology is a term used to describe any
device or service that increases, maintains, or
improves the functional performance of an individual
with a disability. Because of AT’s immense potential
benefits, federal law requires that it be considered
when developing an IEP for every student with a
disability. Recognizing the need for assistive
technology involves (1) acknowledging a performance
problem and (2) acting on a desire to improve that
performance.

2. MANDATED AMENDMENT
 The 2004 amendments to the Assistive Technology
Act of 1998 supports State efforts to improve the
provision of assistive technology to individuals with
disabilities through comprehensive statewide
programs of technology-related assistance, for
individuals with disabilities of all ages, …
 To provide States with financial assistance that
supports programs designed to maximize the ability
of individuals with disabilities and their family
members, guardians, advocates, and authorized
representatives to obtain assistive technology
devices and assistive technology services.

3. ALABAMA LAW
 STAR, Alabama’s Assistive Technology Act
program, is administered through the Alabama
Department of Rehabilitation Services and is
federally funded by the Rehabilitation Services
Administration (RSA) under the Assistive
Technology Act of 1998, as amended in 2004 (P.L.
108-364).

4. LEARNING IMPAIRED
ALLOWS FOR BASIC MOVEMENT WITH
IDENTIFICATION

5. SEEING IMPAIRED
BRAILLE TYPEWRITER
HELPS VISUALLY HANDICAPPED TO READ AND
WRITE

6. HEARING IMPAIRED
ENHANCES SOUND

7. ADAPTIVE ACCESS FOR PHYSICAL AND COGNITIVE
DISABILITIES. USING INTELLIKEYS AS AN ASSISTIVE
TECHNOLOGY FOR COMPUTER ACCESS.

8. REFERENCES
 Alabama Department of Education, Project for Assistive Technology. (n.d.). Documenting the need for
assistive technology. Retrieved on July 20, 2010, from http://www.rehab.alabama.gov/individuals-and-
families/star
 Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A., & Petroff, J. G. (2008). Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the
school experiences of students with disabilities. Upper Saddle River, NJ: Pearson Education, Inc.
 Edyburn, D. L. (April 26, 2006). Negotiating assistive technology supports and services. Advocate
Academy Webinar. Retrieved on July 20, 2010,
fromhttp://www.advocacyinstitute.org/academy/Sep09ATpromo/AT/archive/lib/playback.html
 The Family Center on Technology and Disability. (n.d.). Assistive technology 101. Retrieved on July 20,
2010, from http://www.fctd.info/resources/tech101.php