What is Assistive Technology?

The Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act (IDEA) defines assistive technology as “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.

The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of such device.”

Assistive technology (AT) devices may be low-tech or high-tech and tools that students require to meet the demands of their curriculum/ individualized education plan (IEP).

AT devices may help a student with a wide range of activities at school, not limited to: reading, writing, communicating, and organizing/ staying on task. Scanmarker Air is an invaluable tool for those with dyslexia and other learning disabilities.

How do I know if my student might benefit from assistive technology?

Talk to your child’s teacher.

Ask if your child is meeting the task demands of the classroom.

If your child is not meeting task demands in the classroom, you may want to discuss what would help your student be more successful in meeting the task demands of the classroom.

Depending on the task(s) your student has difficulties with, various professionals (ie: dyslexia teachers, speech pathologists, interventionists, occupational therapists, physical therapists, Vision Impairment teachers, auditory impairment teachers, and/ or members of the district’s assistive technology team) may come together to determine if AT would help your student, as well as what AT tool(s) your student benefits from.

As a parent you can understand the benefits of different tools, such as pen reader and take an informed decision.

When you decide to purchase a pen reader such as Scanmarker as an Assistive Technology for your student you can make it now and Here.

National Center on Accessible Educational Materials

This website provides resources and information related to accessible educational materials (AEM) and Assistive Technology tools.

The National Center on Accessible Educational Materials provides technical assistance and resources to increase the availability . As well insight on the use of accessible educational materials and technologies for learners with disabilities across the lifespan.