Assistive Technology Resource (ATR) provides consultation to assist the student's Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP), Individualized Education Program (IEP) team or 504 team in the area of assistive technology.
Diane Bicknell, Assistive Technology Team Leader
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F.B. Gwynn Educational Center
5998 Radio Station Road
La Plata, Maryland 20646
301-934-3884 / 301-753-1745
Fax: 301-934-3692
- assists with the assistive technology evaluation as recommended through IFSP/IEP/504 process
- assists with the selection of assistive technology equipment
- assists with the acquisition of appropriate assistive technology
- provides training in the use of assistive technology to professionals, students and families
- assists in obtaining repairs/updates for CCPS assistive technology equipment, as needed
- assists with assistive technology equipment management during transitions
| Auditory Trainer
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Magnifier |
Closed-circuit television
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Communication |
Laptop
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Light vibration music switch |
What is an assistive technology device?
An assistive technology device 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.
EXCEPTION--The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of such device."
(Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) 2004, PL 108-446, Section 602, 1)
What is an assistive technology service?
Assistive technology service means "any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device."
Augmentative and alternative communication is a term used to describe items that are used to help a person communicate when their spoken communication is not effective. There are many items and devices that can be used to help increase or "augment" a person's ability to communicate. These include pictures, symbols, and printed words. They may simply be printed on pieces of paper or cardboard or used on a computer or special dedicated device.
The Speech/Language Pathologist (SLP) is typically the most knowledgeable service provider in the area of Augmentative/Alternative Communication.
Assistive technology devices that may help a student with communication:
ABLEDATA - a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Communication Board
Picture Communication Symbol
Picture Exchange Communication System (PECS)
Speech Generating Devices (SGDs)
- BIGmack and BIG Step-by-Step communicators, LITTLEmack and LITTLE Step-by-Step communicators, etc.
- Dynamic Display Augmentative Communication Devices and Software
- TobiiDynovox products
- Attainment products
- Make it yourself and Workshop handouts from Linda Burkhart
- Prentke Romich products
- Saltillo products
- Tablet/iPad/iPod touch with communication app
- Mayer-Johnson products
The Occupational Therapist is the most knowledgeable person in the areas of fine motor and dexterity.
Assistive technology devices that may help student with fine motor and dexterity:
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Activities of Daily Living
The many devices that help us with routine daily activities such as eating, cooking, and dressing
- Adaptive eating utensils
- Adaptive drinking devices – cut out cup, weighted cup, cup with handles, lid, straw/spout
- Switch access for appliances using the PowerLink Control Unit
Alternative Computer Keyboard
- Kinderboard
- Onscreen keyboard
Alternative Computer Mouse
- Joystick
- Monitor with built in touch screen
- SAM trackball
- Track pad
Art
- Computer drawing/paint software
- Adapted scissors
- Squiggle Wiggle Writer vibrating pen
Computer Access
Devices that allow an individual to operate a computer who cannot use a standard keyboard or mouse
- Don Johnston Switch Interface Pro
- Microsoft Windows Accessibility Features – (StickyKeys, FilterKeys, MouseKeys, ToggleKeys, Scalable User Interface Elements, Pointer Schemes, Pointer Speed & Acceleration, Pointer Visibility, SnapTo, Configure mouse for right- or left-handed use, Click speed, Click Lock, On-Screen Keyboard, Cursor Width Control)
Environmental Control
Tools that allow a person to turn on/off electronic devices in their environment
- Light switch extension
- Switch Adapted Fan
- Use of interface and switch to turn on electrical appliances (radio, blender, fan, etc.)
Holders
- Universal Cuff holder – holds eating utensil, marker, crayon, etc.
- Arm supports
Recreation and Leisure
- Accessible Game Software
- Adaptive sporting equipment (lighted/beeping ball, bowling ramp, etc.)
- Switch Adapted Bubble Blower
- Switch Activated CD Player
- Switch Adapted Toys
- Switch Adapted Vibrator
- TV remote – large buttons or voice activated
- Toys adapted with Velcro/magnets/handle
Stabilizing Materials
- Dycem or anti-slip carpet padding
- Velcro
Stamps
- Letter/Number stamps
- Name stamps
Switch Software
Switches and Mounts
Assistive technology for seating and positioning can be as simple as having the correct size chair and correct height table. It can also be more complex, custom made items that address a student’s very unique needs. The most important thing to remember is that no one can use their arms and hands effectively if they are not well positioned. Proper positioning minimizes the effect of abnormal muscle tone, accommodates for deformities, and provides sufficient postural support to allow the student to use his or her arms and hands. So seating and positioning are very important. Mobility relates to tools that can help a student to move within the school environment.
Concerns about mobility, seating, and positioning should be addressed with the student’s Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist.
Assistive technology devices that may help student with gross motor activities, mobility, seating and positioning:
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Crutches
- Forearm crutches
Emergency Evacuation Down Stairs
Mobility Standers & Gait Trainers
Powered Mobility
- Innovative Products Go-bot
- Power wheelchair
- Scooter
Seating and Positioning
- Block for feet
- Kaye Products adapted chair
- Non-slip surface on chair to prevents slipping (Dycem)
- Rifton activity chair
Standers
- Prone/Upright/Supine stander
- Rifton Mobile Standers
Walkers
Wheelchairs
- Push chairs/strollers
- Pediatric wheelchairs
- Kid Kart wheelchairs
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Computer Access
Microsoft Windows accessibility features – (SoundSentry, Captions, MSN Messenger, Sound Volume Control, Visual Notification)
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Calculators
- Audio graphing calculator
- Big Display Calculator
- Calculator with print out
- Calculator with special features (e.g. fraction translation)
- Talking calculator
- Talking calculator with oversize LCD display
- Talking Scientific calculator
Computer software
- On-screen/scanning calculator
- Software with cuing for math computation (may use adapted input methods)
- Software for manipulation of objects
Manipulatives
- Abacus/ Math Line
- Low tech alternatives for answering
- Math “Smart Chart”
- Tactile/voice output measuring devices
- Talking watches/clocks
Closing the Gap
A paid subscription print/digital newspaper or paid subscription digital newspaper reporting assistive technology resources for children and adults with special needs published six times a year.
World of Possibilities
A free magazine written for the entire disabilities community published bi-annually.
National Center for Technology Innovation
Free digital articles featuring assistive technology information and resources.
Center on Technology and Disability
A free assistive technology digital library..
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products.
Center on Technology and Disability (CTD) - a resource for Assistive and Instructional Technology Supporting Learners with Disabilities. CTD offers a range of information and personal and professional development on the subject of assistive and instructional technologies.
Maryland Assistive Technology Network (MATN) - provides assistive technology specialists information on the most up-to-date AT policies, practices, and devices. The Center for Technology in Education (CTE) offers professional development opportunities to MATN members through its semi-annual institutes with nationally acclaimed leaders in assistive technology, regional meetings, and the MATN Online website. MATN membership is free and open to all Maryland educators, including: special educators, general educators, speech language pathologists, assistive technology specialists, occupational therapists, vision specialists, state administrators, district administrators, physical therapists, and hearing specialists.
Maryland Learning Links - a free web site by Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Special Education and Early Intervention Services (MSDE), and the Johns Hopkins University, School of Education, Center for Technology in Education (JHU CTE). a free web site by Maryland State Department of Education, Division of Special Education and Early Intervention Services (MSDE), and the Johns Hopkins University, School of Education, Center for Technology in Education (JHU CTE).
Maryland Technology Assistance Program (MD TAP) - provides information on available products, devices, services and other resources to assist individuals with disabilities and senior citizens.
Mid-Atlantic ADA Center – provides training, information, and technical assistance on the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) to businesses, consumers, schools, and government agencies within the Mid-Atlantic Region (PA, DE, MD, VA, WV, and DC).
AT Discount Sales & Services - offers discounts on assistive technology products and training opportunities to Maryland schools and families.
National Association for the Deaf – works to promote, protect, and preserve the rights and quality of life of deaf and hard of hearing individuals in the United States of America.
National Federation of the Blind - a national membership organization of blind people in the United States. The NFB improves blind people's lives through advocacy, education, research, technology, and programs encouraging independence and self-confidence. It is the leading force in the blindness field today and the voice of the nation's blind. In January 2004 the NFB opened the National Federation of the Blind Jernigan Institute, the first research and training center in the United States for the blind led by the blind.
Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology (QIAT) – a group of individuals who provide input into the ongoing process of identifying, disseminating, and implementing a set of widely-applicable Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services in school settings.
Technology and Media Division of the Council for Exceptional Children (TAM) - a national membership organization working to promote the availability and effective use of technology and media for children, birth to 21, with disabilities and/or who are gifted.
V-LINC Providing Independence Through Technology – V-LINC creates technological solutions to improve the independence and quality of life for individuals of all ages with disabilities in Maryland. We do this through a mix of off-the-shelf computer software and equipment, and one-of-a-kind, customized assistive technology.
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Auditory Reminders - for assignments, steps of task, etc.
Digital Supportive Text - searchable text with embedded word identification, definitions, summaries, explanations with visual & auditory supports
Electronic Organizers
Highlighted Text - markers, highlight tape, ruler, etc.
Low Tech Aids - index tabs, color coded folders
Electronic Reminders
Mobile Computing Devices
Print or Picture Schedule
Software for Organization of Ideas and Studying
- Draft:Builder (Don Johnston) - for 3rd - 12th grade skills
- Inspiration (Inspiration Software, Inc.) - for 6th – 12th grade skills
- Kidspiration for K-5th grade skills
Visual Reminders - for rules, assignments, steps of task, etc.
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Digital Supportive Text
Searchable with embedded word identification, definitions, summaries, explanations with visual & auditory supports.
Digital Text Readers for Computers
Digital text readers for computers include software that can be used with a scanner to scan, read & highlight text. Also provides digital dictionary and synonym support.
Electronic Books
- Bookshare
- Don Johnston Start-to-Finish electronic books
- Internet Public Library
- Living books
- Project Gutenberg - free electronic books
Page turning adaptations
- Page fluffers
- 3 ring binder
Physical presentation adaptations
- Changes in text size, spacing, color, background color
Pictures with text
- Boardmaker
- Picture It
- Writing with Symbols 2000
- SymbolStix
Portable Scanner with Audible Text Reader
Screen Reader Software - converts text to speech
- Microsoft Windows Narrator
- Natural Reader
- Wynn
Considering: The IEP team must consider the need for Assistive Technology device(s) and service(s) when developing the student's IEP. Maryland Online IEP page
Screening: The Assistive Technology Team Leader assists the IEP team to consider the need for Assistive Technology device(s) or service(s), if needed
Referral: The IEP team recommends an Assistive Technology Evaluation. When an Assistive Technology Evaluation is recommended, forward the
- Completed Assistive Technology Referral form
- Signed Consent to Evaluate
To Diane Bicknell, Assistive Technology Team Leader, at the F. B. Gwynn Educational Center
The Assistive Technology Assessment:
The assistive technology assessment will be completed by the IEP team with assistance as needed by the Assistive Technology Team Leader. It will be conducted in the student's natural environment. The assessment may consist of:
- Observation of student in the natural environment
- Interview of instructional staff and related service providers
- Parent interview
- Student interview
- Records review
- Assessment with assistive technology devices
Review of Testing: The IEP team will review the written assistive technology assessment report and determine the need for assistive technology devices and services.
Trial Period:
Prior to making a final decision about the technology needed, the chosen technology will be used in the student's natural environment for a trial period. The IEP Team will determine the duration of the trial period, instructional activities for using the device, responsible personnel who will implement use of the device & criteria for evaluating effectiveness of the device.
Training:
The IEP Team will identify needed training. The Assistive Technology Team Leader will identify resources for obtaining needed training.
Videos
Aaron -- a 13 year old boy with multiple disabilities uses a power wheelchair, an alternative keyboard with keyguard, computer software with large text and speech capabilities and large print materials.
Angie -- a 5 year old with mild cerebral palsy uses a voice output communication aid.
Sean -- a junior in high school who has lost his sight uses text to speech software, Braille printed materials, and a Braille scientific calculator.
Stacey -- a 6th grader with significant hearing loss sues an FM amplification system and a portable word-processing device.
Family Center on Technology and Disability Videos
Brody -- a bright young sixth grader who uses assistive technology to help him write and participate in class.
Elle -- a young woman with cerebral palsy who, with the help of AT, is able to communicate with family, friends, and teachers.
Isabel -- a young girl with fine motor and learning disabilities.
Jared -- a young man with cerebral palsy who controls his computer using a sip and puff switch. That computer access allows Jared to run a business creating dynamic graphics and websites.
Jean -- an engaging 6th grader who uses assistive technology to support learning and having fun with friends and family.
Mason -- a young boy with vision loss who, with the help of AT, is able to learn reading and writing in the same classroom as his sighted peers.
Nick -- a young entrepreneur who owns his own lawn-care business. Nick uses assistive technologies, both low and high tech, that aid him in driving and accessing his laptop computer and tablet.
Sam -- a young man with cerebral palsy who, with the help of AT, is a successful college student, blogger, and sportsman.
A student with visual impairment may need large print or magnification or contrast between background and text. A student who is blind and cannot use print materials may need auditory or Braille translations of printed materials.
The Vision Specialist is very knowledgeable about assistive technology in this area.
Assistive technology devices that may help a student with visual impairment:
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Adapted or Alternative Computer Keyboards
- VisionBoard
- Enlarged labels for keyboard
- Braille/tactile labels for keyboard
Braille Tools
Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
Computer Access
- Microsoft Windows accessibility features – (ToggleKeys, MouseKeys, Sound Schemes, High Contrast Schemes, Scalable User Interface Elements, Pointer Schemes, Pointer Speed & Acceleration, Pointer Visibility, Click Lock, SnapTo, Magnifier, Narrator, Cursor thickness, Personalized appearance, Sound notification)
Digital Text Readers for Computers
- Kurzweil 1000 - software that can be used with a scanner to scan & read for people who are blind or severely visually impaired.
- Kurzweil 3000 - software that can be used with a scanner to scan & read for struggling readers or people with less severe visual impairment.
- textHELP Read & Write Gold
- Wynn
Digital Textbooks
- Adobe Acrobat accessibility to online texts
- Learning Ally (Previously Recording for the Blind & Dyslexic) - audio books
Magnifiers/Monoculars
Screen Magnification for Computers
- Large computer monitor (21")
- Microsoft Magnifier
- Screen color contrast
- ZoomText
- Zoomware
Screen Readers for Computers
Writing involves the physical ability to produce written language (mechanics) and the cognitive ability to put words together to create written expression (composing).
The Occupational Therapist is often the most knowledgeable service provider for the mechanics of writing. The Special Education Teacher and Speech/Language Pathologist may be the most helpful in the area of composition.
Abbreviation Expansion
- Microsoft Office Word 2010 - View menu, Record macro
Adapted Paper
- Raised line paper
- Highlighted line paper
Alternative Keyboards
Computer Access
- Microsoft Windows accessibility features – (Pointer Schemes, Pointer Speed & Acceleration, Pointer Visibility, Click Lock, SnapTo, Cursor Width Control, Personalized appearance, Cursor Blink Rate)
Electronic (talking) dictionary/thesaurus/spell checker
On Screen Keyboards
Organization and Planning
- Draft:Builder (Don Johnston) - for 3rd - 12th grade skills
- Inspiration (Inspiration Software, Inc.) - for 6th – 12th grade skills
- Kidspiration – for K-5th grade skills
Pencil Grip
Slant Boards
Talking Word Processors
- Write:Outloud ( Don Johnston)
- Writing with Symbols 2000
Word cards/word book/word wall
Word Prediction Software
