Implementing AT effectively

Implementing AT can be overwhelming, but hopefully using knowledgeable individuals and resources can make this process easier.  Recommending the use of AT to be implemented into the classroom may be difficult when going through a school district.  Ensuring that professionals and student have the knowledge and skills to implement a successful transition to using the AT devices requires much planning.  Below are two resources I found to be very helpful in assisting with the AT process. 

 http://www.setbc.org/setbc/topics/effective_implementation_of_assistive_technology.html


They provide a lot of pre-made social stories, schedules, and PECS images that can be used for free.

Other areas of the website offer a guide on how to effectively implement assistive technology.  In a previous post I briefly talked about AT and the IEP.  AT should be considered for every student.  This website breaks the process into seven steps:

• Gather Relevant Information
• Establish IEP Goals
• Conduct AT Trials
• Identify AT Solutions
• Develop AT Implementation Plan
• Adapt Lessons for Technology Integration
• Follow up and Plan Transition.

The next resource I researched was the Oregon Technology Access Program. Below is a description of my findings:

 

 

http://www.otap-oregon.org/Pages/Default.aspx

This program designs documents to be used by agencies/ school districts who are developing plans to implement assistive technology. What is great about this website is that is has PDF's available including samples, checklists, and suggestions for how to implement AT elements into the school your work for. 

References:

 

 http://www.setbc.org/pictureset/Default.aspx http://www.setbc.org/setbc/topics/effective_implementation_of_assistive_technology.html

 

Dell, A., Newton, D., & Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the classroom: Enhancing the School Experiences of Students with Disabilities. Pearson.

 

http://www.otap-oregon.org/Pages/Default.aspx