Assistive Technology Internet Modules

http://www.atinternetmodules.org/mod_list.php is a great site that enables educators as members to explore much information about assistive technology with suggestions and plans to implement these practices in their classrooms as well.  On the site there are various modules that include lengthy yet great hands-on exposure on the topic.  

I recently completed the four modules on the Assistive Technology Internet Modules that focus on School Age Students and my understanding and reflections of what I learned from each are shared below.

1) AT Assessment Process in the School Environment

This module contains information that one may retrieve after having decided that assistive technology may be a good option for a student.  The guidelines to follow in assessing the student’s needs and abilities that match with certain devices were thoroughly explained here.  Additionally, the prompts WHO/WHEN/HOW related to assistive technology are included to consider when serving the student in their school environment.

2) AT Consideration in the IEP Process

This module relies on the mandate under IDEA of 2004 that all individuals with IEPs must have the opportunity and access to assistive technology devices and services.  I was very interested and learned to respect this legal ruling and consideration appropriate for students in special education.  Taken from the summary on the site, 

"Does the student need assistive technology to meaningfully participate and progress in the general education curriculum?", and the answer is typically documented through the use of a "yes/no" checkbox on the IEP form. But behind this simple act lies a great opportunity.”

3) AT Supports and Services in the IEP

This module directs one where to write about the used assistive technology devices in the IEP document.  Because this formal documentation and plan is a key aspect of a certain individual reaching their goals, it must be completed seriously and carefully.  I was appreciative of this exposure as I am only becoming familiar with the IEP construction and writing process.  I now know where to write about the use of assistive technology on one’s IEP.

4) Automatic Speech Recognition (ASR)

This module defines ASR as the process of turning spoken words into written text and from that base, a device that does this task can help certain students in writing.  I was greatly impressed by this approach and the prompts for administrators to consider when a student uses ASR were interesting to note.