- Shakopee Public Schools
- Special Education Resources
- Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology
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The role of the district's Assistive Technology service is to provide support to IEP teams by evaluating, acquiring, training, and implementing technology strategies for students with disabilities. IEP team members will contact the Assistive Technologist when consultation is needed to explore technology options that will promote student progress towards IEP goals and objectives.
Examples of support include:- Overview of information related to Assistive technology
- Assistive technology consideration for students (informal or formal)
- Support in acquiring Assistive technology and devices
- Support with Assistive technology trials (devices or equipment)
- Support student training of use and care of the device Staff development training (both individual and small group)
- Suggestions for technology integration
Assistive Technology Consultant
Julie Phillips
Email
Phone: 952.496.5024
Fax: 952.496.5093Assistive Technology ConsultantDebra ArterburyPhone: 952.496.7040Fax: 952.496.5093
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What is Assistive Technology?
Assistive Technology is any piece of equipment that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of students with disabilities. (34 C.F.R. §300.5) Assistive Technology is a product or service used by persons with disabilities to complete a task that otherwise would be too difficult or impossible to complete. When considering Assistive Technology, products and services are both explored to meet the needs of all learners.ProductAssistive Technology Products are used to enhance the functional capabilities of students with disabilities. Assistive Technology Equipment ranges from low to high technology and is considered to make progress towards student progress and independence.Assistive Technology can be broken down into 3 different categories:Low Technology: Devices without batteries.Examples include: highlighters, slant boards, specialize paper, therapy sit balls, sticky notes, magnifiers, magnetic letters,wipe off boards,adaptive scissors and picture schedules.Mid Technology: Devices with batteries.Examples include: calculators, hand held spell checkers, switches for voice output, switch activated toys, and portable word processorsHigh Technology: Devices that can plug into the wall.Examples include: include computers, laptop, software, scanners, iPads and Powerlink box for switches. -
What are Assistive Technology services?
Assistive Technology Services refers to the services necessary to assess needs and support use of the device or equipment. This is the process of selecting, acquiring, and teaching students how to use the product to access curriculum and make progress towards IEP goals.These services include:- Evaluation of the needs of the child with a disability.
- Purchasing, leasing or otherwise providing for the acquisition of the device.
- Selecting, fitting, customizing, maintaining or repairing the device.
- Training or technical assistance for a child with a disability.
- Training or technical assistance for the professionals working with the student.