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, Physical Therapist, Assistive Technology Professional
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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
|
Magnifier |
Closed-circuit television
|
Communication |
Laptop
|
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."
ABLEDATA- a free searchable database of assistive technology products
Computer Access
Microsoft Windows accessibility features – (SoundSentry, Captions, MSN Messenger, Sound Volume Control, Visual Notification)
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.
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 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.
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 Professional 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 Assessment. When an Assistive Technology Assessment is recommended, forward the
- Completed Assistive Technology Referral form
- Signed Consent to for Assessment
To Diane Bicknell, Assistive Technology Professional, 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 Professional. 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 Professional 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.
