Assistive Technology Overview

Integrating Technology Into the Classroom Curricula

Assistive or adaptive technology sometimes referred to as universal design or universal accessibility generally refers to accessible design in equipment and products for people with disabilities.

When we consider the implications of such designs, we mostly think in terms of ramps replacing steps into a building, or the restroom stall that has been designed for people in wheel chairs. While this is a part of universal design, we are mostly concerned on this site with assistive technology as it applies to education technology.

Properly utilizing assistive technology requires that an individual must plan ahead and consider high tech and low tech solutions as they apply to their particular disability or situation. If a person is considering a high tech solution, then they should consider being evaluated by a counselor or therapist first to see if that particular solution is necessary. the reason for this is because high tech solutions are usually very expensive.

When considering a piece of equipment, such as a computer for assistive technology purposes, thought must be given to whether or not it can be adapted to the various needs of the individual or individuals you are evaluating and buying the equipment for. A few of the questions that you might ask yourself before investing personal or school funds into this type equipment are:

- If I get a more advanced device, will it meet more than one need that I have for its use?

-Will the needs of my class be met by the purchase over a period of time in terms of months to years?

- What types of tasks and equipment will I need for a particular student with a certain type of disability

- What types of assistive technologies are out there that I can use?