IEP Considerations and AT

This blog focuses on Assistive Technology and its effectiveness to aid diverse learners. 

To me, every person is unique so therefore they learn differently.  That being said, individuals in special education or with disabilities are expected to receive appropriate and fitting accommodations and assistance in their learning.  This right is sponsored by within IDEA (Individuals with Disabilities in Education Act).  

These accommodations may include assistive technology and AT plays a special role in one’s IEP (Individualized Education Program).  

Having researched this presence of AT in one’s IEP it is understood that 

There are three areas where AT can be incorporated into a student’s IEP:

• under Special Education for “annual goals”
• under Related Services
• or under Supplemental Aids/Services

All of these sections, fittingly different for each student should have consideration to support this student in the least restrictive educational environment (LRE).  That student’s IEP advocates or supporting teachers, therapists and parents should acknowledges the student’s needs consequently matching appropriate devices and tools to help them achieve.  These decisions and plans are consulted at IEP meetings and they are documented in the IEP annually.  

Hopefully the seriousness of AT as a helping tool is supported from these initial plans!