Assistive Technology and Inclusive Education — Vocabulary Flashcards (Video Notes)

Vocabulary flashcards covering key concepts, laws, and educational applications of assistive technology from the video notes.

Assistive Technology (AT)

Any item, equipment, or product system, whether off-the-shelf, modified, or customized, used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.

Low-tech device

Simple communication tools such as special paper, whiteboards, and pictures.

High-tech device

Complex or expensive tools like computers with special keyboards used to support learning.

IEP funding/access to AT

Schools are expected to help pay for AT, but access depends on IEP needs and the school budget.

Global AT supply vs prevalence

Countries with high disability prevalence often have the lowest supply of skilled AT providers.

Early forms of AT

Initial AT like prosthetics and mobility devices (e.g., wheelchairs) that improve daily living.

First focus of AT

Visual impairments.

Benefits of AT

Builds independence, enhances strengths, and boosts motivation.

Inclusive goal

All students should succeed in general education classrooms.

Leaders’ role in AT

Support IEPs, know AT laws/resources, and provide training.

Key to AT success

Choose the right AT for student needs; staff knowledge and values matter.

Digital Generation and 21st-century learning

Today’s students live with constant digital tech; classrooms must adapt to keep learning engaging.

Challenges in AT for teachers

Many lack AT training; more AT education and professional development are needed.

Shift in teaching styles

From lecture-based to active, hands-on, engaging learning.

AT and ASD (autism spectrum disorder)

Visual support, technology, and active engagement aid communication and reduce anxiety.

Visual support in the classroom

Attract attention, make concepts concrete, and help students explain their thinking.

AT knowledge gap for teachers

Teachers often lack knowledge and skills to support and assess students with disabilities.

Three levels of AT knowledge

Awareness; Working Knowledge; Transformation.

Effective AT training methods

Ongoing training, integration in programs, and Professional Learning Communities (PLCs).

Accommodations groups under IDEA/504

IDEA: students with documented disabilities; Section 504: individuals with conditions like ADHD, asthma, CP, etc.

Why low-tech methods are valuable

Inexpensive, widely available, reusable, and effective for reinforcing concepts with concrete objects.

AT in Mathematics (low-tech)

Using fingers, coins, or times tables to teach counting, addition, subtraction, and multiplication.

AT in Mathematics (high-tech)

Calculators and programs like MathPad to aid calculation and organization, especially for fine motor difficulties.

Low-tech strategies for writing

Daily conversations, readings, pens with grips, and stabilizing paper.

Co-Writer Universal

High-tech writing tool with word prediction, grammar, and vocabulary support.

EZKeys

High-tech writing tool with expanded keyboard and word prediction.

Gus! Word Predictions

Word prediction and typing speed support.

WordQ Writing Aid

Word prediction with spoken feedback and suggestions.

Write OutLoud

Immediate auditory feedback on written text.

Draft:Builder

Tool for step-by-step drafting and organization of notes.

Future directions — Virtual Reality (VR)

VR provides safe, simulated practice of real-world skills and personalized support.

NLS — National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled

Free audiobook and braille library service via the Library of Congress for people with vision or reading disabilities.

NLS resources

Equipment loans and access to audiobooks, magazines, braille, and mobile device compatibility.

IDEA Sec. 300.5 — AT devices

Under IDEA, AT devices are items used to increase or improve a child’s functioning.

What is not AT under IDEA

Medical devices surgically implanted (e.g., cochlear implants) are not considered AT.

Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)

Civil rights law (1990) prohibiting discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, education, transportation, and public accommodations.

EEOC and the ADA

Enforces Title I—prohibits workplace discrimination; investigates complaints and can take legal action.

Rehabilitation Act of 1972

Prohibits disability discrimination in programs and activities funded by the federal government.

Relationship between ADA and Rehab Act

ADA expands protections beyond federal programs; Rehab Act covers federal programs while ADA covers state/local governments and public services.

IDEA Part 300 main purpose

Ensure children with disabilities receive a free and appropriate public education and support states in delivering services.

Enforcement of IDEA Part 300

State and local education agencies in every state are responsible for compliance.

Discovery assessment and planning (AT)

Need for AT identified by clinician/teacher/parent; student teams assess needs, set goals, and select tools.

AT myths — cheating

False — AT is a tool to help students meet goals, not cheating.

AT myths — motivation

AT can motivate students when there is support to learn and use the technology.