Misc
What is technology abandonment?
What is a technology is put into place and then not used as it does not benefit the student, the student does not know how to use it, etc
What is the issue with training families to use AT?
What is it requires planning and collaboration with family members as they are required to operate and maintain these devices as well
Why is funding the main roadblock for AT?
What is since schools are required to provide AT devices if written in IEP, the device is to at no cost of the family but must be purchased by school. Schools with limited funds cannot purchase what is needed
What is an AT device?
What 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 functional capabilities of a child with a disability"
Why might a straw be considered an AT device?
What is a student who is physically unable to grasp a cup or tilt the cup to drink would required a straw
Are AT devices considered under FAPE?
What is of course! This is why a schools have to provide these AT devices if deemed that they need them as this is a way they can access the curriculum appropriately based on their ability
Why must we find realistic ways for involving family members in the decision-making process regarding AT?
What is, In order to support the whole child, the family must also understand the value of the AT and be willing to use it at home to benefit their child. They must agree with the AT being used to increase the chances they will use it properly
What are some practical constrains to consider?
What are cost of the device, availability of the equipment, how to teach student/caretakers how to use it
Purpose of AT devices
What is help students who lack specific skills or abilities engage in activities that they could otherwise not do
3 mobility devices
What are wheelchair, scooter, walker. All used for students with severe physical impairments
What is the WATI AT Checklist?
What is an assessment tool called the Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative (WATI) AT Checklist that considers the areas of function for the student to help determine what AT devices to use
How would stigma outweigh advantages of AT for families?
What is certain devices may cause unwanted attention for the student and families that may be a factor in using the AT device at home or in the community
Why would teachers not considered an AT even though a student could benefit?
What is some teachers will recognize AT potential benefits but will not pursue because they do not know how to get the equipment funded
What are some AT services?
What are evaluation of the needs of the child including functional evaluation, purchasing or leasing AT devices, selecting or designing AT device, coordinating with other therapies, and training for child and family as well as professionals
Are cochlear implants included under IDEA 2004 Act?
What is No, all medial devices that are surgically implanted are exempt. However, hearing aids are considered an AT device
What is UDL?
What is a Universal Design of Learning which is a framework used to guide intentionally design learning environments to reduce barriers for all students
How does routine play role in using AT at home?
What is these devices may create new demands for the family and may change their daily routines at home which is a factor that must be considered when choosing a particular AT device
Why is teacher training an issue regarding AT?
What is all individuals (teachers, other professionals, student, caretakers) must be trained to use AT devices. Some teachers do not believe that it is necessary to learn about new technologies
What is an AAC device?
What is Augmentative or alternative communication device that includes communication books or voice input devices
Devices that a non verbal student would use
What are augmentative or alternative communication (AAC) devices, text to speech, PEC symbols, yes/no button
What are some of the factors that influence the performance of students using AT?
What are student ability, the nature of that task to be completed with AT, the type of device being used
Why do minority children warrant special attention regarding AT?
What is in the past, minority children's parents have been less involved in decisions related to AT choices, or view professionals as the "experts" and rely less on their own opinions or attitudes
What is wrong with selecting a device "off the shelf" for students with severe disabilities?
What is this is not a one size fits all and takes much data collection and planning to consider what technology will best benefit the student
Is AT a requirement of a students IEP?
What is Yes, even if there is no plan to use AT, this must be written into the students IEP. It is federally mandated that AT is considered during IEP process
What is the low to high tech continuum?
What is a continuum of technological advancement from low to high based on varying levels of complexity of the technology (low - Velcro or switches. High - power wheelchairs or computers)