Before I get into AT devices that help adults achieve independence, I should talk about the four main areas students must develop in order to achieve independence with the device.
Operational Skills- the skills needed to operate the device
Functional skills- knowing how to perform the tasks in which the device is intended and including how the AT helps with the task.
Strategic Skills- involve the ability to decide which tool or strategy is used for a specific task.
Social Skills- the context in which the assistive technology is used.
In school, teachers help students learn these different skills so that they become independent in the use of the device. Once the student is using the device independently, the device can help him/her become a more independent individual in daily life.
AT can help teach functional skills that will help the student become more independent. Instructional applications from Laureate Learning Systems are available to help with functions such as early vocabulary, cause and effect, and cognitive concepts. Such programs can help students learn essential vocabulary of his/her surroundings with the My house, My town, My school programs. Attainment company also makes available customizable applications that help build functional skills of counting money, telling time, and making change.
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