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Assistive Technology

 
It has been estimated that 54 million people or 20.6 percent of all Americans have some level of disability. Assistive technology (AT) can be defined 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 individuals with disabilities. (29 U.S.C. Sec 2202(2)).

According to the Interagency Committee on Disability Research 2001-2002 Report to the President and Congress (October 2003), individuals with disabilities use AT to accommodate limitations due to their disabilities. A few examples include:
  • A computer that can be programmed to talk for individuals who cannot speak
  • Wheelchairs, both manual and power, for individuals who cannot walk due to paralysis or weakness in their legs
  • Hearing aids and other amplification devices for individuals with hearing loss
  • Large screen computers for individuals with visual problems

Assistive Technology Policy Documents

In January of 2024, the US Department of Education released a Dear Colleague Letter on the Provision of Assistive Technology Devices and Services for Children with Disabilities under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act addressing the role of assistive technology in creating high quality educational opportunities for all learners.  

The Dear Colleague Letter introduced the new document Myths and Facts Surrounding Assistive Technology Devices and Services. "This document is designed to increase understanding of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’s (IDEA’s) assistive technology (AT) requirements, dispel common misconceptions regarding AT, and provide examples of the use of AT devices and services for children with disabilities and to highlight the different requirements under Part C and Part B of IDEA" (US Department of Education, 2024, p. i).

Assistive Technology and Accessible Educational Materials Center

The Assistive Technology and Accessible Educational Materials (AT & AEM) Center is a centralized, Responsive resource center that empowers individuals with disabilities by providing accessible education materials, access to assistive technologies and highly specialized technical assistance and professional development support.


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Assistive Technology Resources

Below are links you may find helpful.  [All vendor sites and references provided here are suggested as resources for those interested in assistive technology, and are not necessarily recommended by SST4.]
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