Assistive Technology
Assistive technology(AT) refers to anything that will enable a person with disabilities to perform, maintain or increase functions or tasks that may otherwise be difficult or impossible for them to do! Assistive Technology can include modified or adapted equipment, computers, communication devices, books, etc.
Any student with an IEP or 504 plan is eligible for assistive technology. It is up to the IEP/504 team to determine if accommodations, modifications or other strategies currently in place are meeting the needs of the student or if the student would benefit from additional supports.
Helpful AT Tools:
Select to Speak (Chromebook) is an accessibility feature that allows students to have selected text read aloud.
How to enable Select to Speak:
- Go to Settings > Advanced > Accessibility
- Select Manage accessibility features
- Turn on Select to Speak
How to use Select to Speak:
- Hold the Search key and drag your mouse to select the text you want read aloud.
- Click the Select to Speak icon in the bottom-right corner of the toolbar, then drag over the text. Click the icon again to stop reading.
- Press Search + S to read highlighted text.
iTalkDoc App - Is an assistive technology application that supports communication for individuals with diverse learning and communication needs. The app allows users to create visually supported documents using symbols, images, and text, helping improve understanding, expression, and independence at school and beyond.
iPad Accessibility Features -A great tutorial on the accessibility features available on the iPad and how to use them