AT Considerations in the IEP Process

Although most student do not require the use of Assistive Technology, IDEA 2004 requires that IEP teams must consider AT for each student. In order to maintain that IEP teams do meet this requirement they must ask themselves these questions: 1) What is the child expected to do, that he cannot do currently in his placement due to his disability? 2) Can AT help the child to do what is expected of him and provide a solution to his current problem?

Assistive Technology does not only include the technology device or software, but it most often includes additional services that relate to the use of the AT device. The IEP will contain the AT device AND the AT service if any is deemed necessary. Not only is it important that the student be trained in the use of the device, but it is equally important that teachers and paraprofessionals be trained in using the devices as well. In addition, there are expert staff who are available to help support students/teachers/parents in the school and home setting.

Before researching this topic, I did not realize that AT in IEP's also meant including related services such as trainings and supports. In hind sight, it does make sense that related services should be included in the IEP process, just like other related services are included for things like OT, Speech etc.  And it does make an impact on having training and support especially for devices and software that may be more obscure, unlike devices like the iPad which are being used everyday, not just for AT devices.