This document discusses assistive technology and its importance in meeting the needs of students with disabilities. It defines assistive technology as any device or service that helps a student with a disability meet their educational goals as outlined in their individualized education program. The document also mentions the Assistive Technology Act of 2004 which provided more guidance to states on identifying assistive technology resources. Finally, it concludes that as assistive technology has advanced over time, from Braille devices to high-tech audio and visual devices today, the quality of life for individuals with disabilities has grown, so educators must continue advancing with technology to provide the best education for all students.
2. As educators we are always adapting our
modes of instruction to meet the needs of our
students. We were taught to present lessons
so that each modality (kinesthetic, auditory
and visual) would be present. Assistive
technology is another tool in meeting the
needs of students with disabilities. We must
continue to grow with new advancements that
will provide the best educational opportunities
for all students.
3. Assistive technology is any device or service
that assists a student that has a disability in
meeting their goals as directed in their
individualized education program.
http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/at/chalcycle.htm
4. In October of 2004, Public Law 108-364 was
signed by President Bush. This law was a
reauthorization ofThe AssistiveTechnology ACT
of 1998. The new legislation provided more
precise instruction on how to provide assistance
to individuals with disabilities and to identify
assistive technology resources on a state by
state basis.
http://www.cec.sped.org/~/media/Files/Policy/Archive
s/Assistive%20Technology/Summary%20of%20Assi
stive%20Technology%20Law.pdf
9. In conclusion, as assistive technology has
grown from Braille devices in the 1800s
into to high-tech, audio, visual, and physical
devices of the 21st century, so has the
quality of the lives of individuals with
disabilities. Again, as educators we must
continue to grow with this technology so
that we may provide the best educational
opportunities for all students.
