[Untitled photograph about Assistive Technology]. Retrieved from http://www4.esc13.net/uploads/assistivetech/images/at.gif
In my second week of class, we focused on Assistive Technology (AT) and discussed the basic details of what it is and how it can be used. Although I have had the opportunity of becoming familiar with the term AT in previous classes, and knowing that even a simple pencil grip can be considered AT, there were several new ideas that I had never heard before. The first was the difference between AT devices and AT services. My professor explained that the device is the actual product that is given to the students to assist them, but the services are everything else that comes along with the product. This can include training, fitting the device, customizing, modifying, and any repairs needed for the device. I feel that the most important part of the services aspect would be the training. It was made very clear that everyone involved in the student’s life needs to have adequate training on their AT in order for it to be utilized effectively. Otherwise, the individual won’t benefit from the AT as much as they should be.
The second concept that
interested me was the funding and purchasing of the AT for a student. AT is
required by law, which I did not know. However, once a school district
purchases AT, they keep it with them even if the student ends up moving into
another school district. I originally assumed that the AT was specific to a particular
student and that they would keep it with them. However, this is not the case.
As I was writing this
post, I was trying to think of any past experiences that I’ve had with AT.
Although I don’t have much experience teaching with AT, I have observed several
Learning Support and Special Education classrooms that have many students using
iPads. These devices seem to be very popular and help students communicate when
they are nonverbal or have difficulty expressing their thoughts. It amazed me
how easy communication became with these devices whereas years ago teachers
might have never been able to get a student to communicate at all. AT is
definitely a great thing and I hope it keeps improving in order to provide a
better education for all students.
Emily, I agree that training would be very important for the services aspect of AT. I believe everyone including (teachers, parents, aids, etc) helping the student should be trained with the device the student uses to give the student the best learning experience possible. Also, I did not know that AT was required by law. I personally think that it is great that it required by law. I wish that the device could follow the student instead of staying in the school. I think that it would be very beneficial to the student. Lastly, I hope that AT continues to grow and help all students better their education.
ReplyDeleteThe information about AT that you provided discussing the tech as mandatory for the districts to purchase but then keeping it once the student moves on from the district really interests me. If it were my opinion, I would say to let the student who it was mandatory for keep it to benefit their future life. On the other hand, the district is putting that money upfront and there could be a possibility of another students coming through the district in need of the same AT.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed you input on Assistive Technology, thanks!
TMath