In this module, we will explore how Individual Education Plan (IEP) teams can assess if assistive technology is required to reduce or remove learning barriers for students with a disability.  In the past, IEP teams have looked to specialists as experts to conduct an assistive technology assessment for their students. However, the IEP team is the best expert on their student. It is best practice for the IEP to conduct an AT assessment on their students, with each team member contributing in the area of the assessment that aligns with their expertise.  In this module, we will share the steps necessary for an assistive technology assessment, as well as resources and tools that will help the IEP team make data-informed decisions.  Assessment ideas for common types of assistive technology tools will be discussed, such as tools for reading, writing, and math.  In addition, resources will be shared for AT assessments that involve AT for vision, hearing, motor, and communication.  We will also share WA State support agencies who exist to guide IEP teams during the AT assessment process.  

This PowerPoint presentation provides a brief overview of Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) devices and focuses on the results of a case study conducted by an elementary special education teacher.

Inspired by the guidelines of the Universal Design for Learning (CAST, 2018), "Universal Latin Fables" wants to give the opportunity to discover Phaedrus' fables to as many students as possible. The web-site uses storytelling process based entirely on the Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC). Not only does it make the reading process easier, but it also allows autism spectrum students to understand the fable on several levels.

To whom it turns?

DYSLEXIA:
This website uses the OpenDyslexic font in order to increase readability.

AUTISM SPECTRUM
All the fables can be read using Alternative and Augmentative Communication and PECS symbols offered by SymWriter, specific for autistic people but usable by everyone.

VISUAL IMPAIRMENT
The "Listen" step can be useful to blind students. Furthermore, the website is responsive and the text is scalable.

HEARING IMPAIRMENT
The "Watch" and the "Read" step can be useful to deaf students.

The website is designed to be used by adults and teenagers or by children helped by a parent or a supporting teacher.

Mada Assistive Technology Portal is the first digital platform specialized in assistive technology in Arabic. The portal provides a wide range of information, resources and assistive technology services to enable and support the independence of persons with disabilities through accessible information and communication technology ICT.

Tawasol symbols represent a symbol dictionary of frequently used words in spoken and written Arabic communication. The symbols are represented by images and pictograms.

Comprehensive literacy instruction for all students requires the use of tools and strategies that make the instruction accessible. The Unlocking Literacy for Students with Disabilities Modules will build on what you already know about literacy instruction by demonstrating how strategic tools or strategies can make literacy instruction accessible to students with complex communication needs and physical disabilities. Best practices and research-based strategies for literacy instruction, as well as K-2 English Language Arts (ELA) Common Core State Standards (CCSS), will be included throughout all modules. Universal Strategies & Technology ToolsModule 1 will equip educators and parents with foundational tools and universal strategies to improve literacy instruction for students with complex communication needs and physical disabilities.  The foundational tools and strategies will be applied within subsequent Unlocking Literacy modules.

Comprehensive literacy instruction for all students requires the use of tools and strategies that make the instruction accessible. The Unlocking Literacy for Students with Disabilities Modules will build on what you already know about literacy instruction by demonstrating how strategic tools or strategies can make literacy instruction accessible to students with complex communication needs and physical disabilities. Best practices and research-based strategies for literacy instruction, as well as K-2 English Language Arts (ELA) Common Core State Standards (CCSS), will be included throughout all modules.Unlocking Literacy Modules (K-2):Module 1. Universal Strategies & Technology ToolsModule 2. Alphabet and Phonological AwarenessModule 3. Emergent ReadingModule 4.  Emergent Writing