Assistive technology (AT) helps people with disabilities in work, learning, and daily life. It can aid in mobility, communication, and anything else that would otherwise be difficult or impossible.
AT includes a broad spectrum of devices, tools, and programs. It can range from no tech (like a pencil grip or handheld magnifier) to high tech (like eye-tracking software). Certain types of AT can help with specific disabilities and needs, while others may be universally designed to meet the needs of many individuals.
When choosing AT for your child, it’s important to remember that higher-tech tools do not equal “better” tech! What’s important is finding what works for your child. Sometimes the simplest, least expensive, or least invasive option is the most effective choice.
Low-/light-tech Assistive Technology
Low- or light-tech AT utilizes technology without complex features or software. These simple devices have few mechanical parts and may or may not require a power source. They require limited or no training to use.
Some low-/light-tech assistive technology examples include:
- Communication tools like printed symbol boards, communication books, and eye gaze boards.
- Writing and reading tools like weighted pens, raised-line paper, color-coded folders, transparent sticky notes, and braille.
- Adapted everyday items like adapted spoon handles, adapted pens, and non-tipping drinking cups.
- Mobility aids like walkers, canes, or braces.
- Classroom and test-taking tools like visual timers, buzzers, calculators, and electronic dictionaries.
- Vision aids like eyeglasses and magnifying glasses.
Medium-tech Assistive Technology
Medium-tech AT utilizes technology without complex software or electronic systems, but it may require a power source and small processor. This type of AT requires some training or technical knowledge to use.
Some medium-tech assistive technology examples include:
- Communication tools like battery-operated electronic speech generating devices (SGD) with simple, pre-recorded messages.
- Writing and reading tools like adaptive/alternative keyboards or computer mice, audiobooks, or spell checkers.
- Capability switches, which allow a student to physically access a computer, toy, or tablet through alternative methods.
- Mobility aids like manual wheelchairs.
High-tech Assistive Technology
High-tech AT relies on sophisticated technology. It requires complex electronics, advanced software, or computerized systems. Using high-tech AT typically requires extensive training and/or access to technical support, and it’s typically much more expensive than lower-tech AT solutions.
Examples of high-tech assistive technology include:
- Dynamic display voice-output speech generating devices (SGDs).
- Voice typing/dictation, tablets/computers, and closed-captioned TVs.
- Smart home technology to increase independence and access to one’s environment.
- Note-taking devices with speech and braille features.
- Screen magnification and screen readers that allow students with low vision or blindness to use computers and tablets.
Assistive Technology for Writing
Low-/light-tech AT — like weighted pens or pencil grips — can help when a disability like dysgraphia affects the physical ability to write. For disabilities that make writing difficult, such as dyslexia, a combination of low-/light- and high-tech AT may be used to eliminate or decrease barriers to writing as much as possible.
Assistive Technology for Spelling
Traditional or electronic dictionaries can be helpful for students with spelling difficulties. Word processing programs with built-in spell checkers or cloud-based typing assistants can also help build confidence and productivity. Other in-class tools, like highlighters or highlighting tape, can be used to mark difficult words in textbooks or other print materials.
Assistive Technology for Reading
Low-/light-tech assistive technology for reading-related disabilities (like dyslexia) can be as simple as highlighters and magnifiers. Higher-tech solutions include text-to-speech software, audiobooks, podcasts, and apps or devices to scan and read printed text.
Assistive Technology for Math
Depending on a student’s disability, a combination of AT tools may be helpful for learning and reinforcing mathematical concepts. Grid or graph paper, enlarged rulers, and math fact charts (like a printed times table) can be used while working on math assignments at home or in class. Higher-tech solutions — like calculators or mobile/tablet apps, such as equation editors — may also be helpful. For students with reading-related difficulties, AT for reading can also be used when working with word problems.
Assistive Technology for Studying and Daily Organizational Skills
AT can help students with disabilities stay organized at home and in the classroom. Examples include graphic organizers and smartphone apps — like a mobile calendar or reminder app — for building habits and tracking studying, assignments, and tests. These tools or programs may be particularly helpful with cognitive disabilities that affect focus or memory.
Assistive Technology for Hearing and Listening
Students who are deaf, hard of hearing, or hearing impaired may rely on high-tech AT like hearing aids. However, medium-tech AT, like closed captioning, can also help in the case of remote learning or video-based assignments.
Assistive Technology for Oral Communication and Language
AT for communication disorders can vary depending on a person’s disability and unique needs. These tools can provide opportunities for oral communication with others in all environments, including home, community, social opportunities, school, etc.
Assistive Technology for Mobility, Seating, and Positioning
There is a wide variety of assistive technology for physical disabilities, ranging from low-/light-tech to very high-tech. Canes, walkers, and manual or electric wheelchairs can increase or improve mobility, while slanted desks, adjustable-height desks, and positioning devices can help with seating, support, and overall ergonomics.
Assistive Technology for Daily Living and Self Care
Assistive technology, as well as adaptive utensils and tools, can assist in daily tasks and self-care regimens, from bathing and dressing to cooking, eating, and more. Some examples include bath or shower bars and seats, health or fitness trackers, and remote monitoring tools.
Assistive Technology for Recreation, Sports, and Leisure
Assistive technology can make recreation more accessible for people with disabilities. AT tools or devices can provide ample opportunities for inclusion and socialization, as well as better access to activities like sports, leisure, and exercise. The AT required depends on a person’s disability and unique needs. Some examples include modified athletic equipment, pool lifts, accessible social events, and braille playing cards.
Assistive Technology for Pre-vocational and Vocational
Students in pre-vocational programs learn skills that can be applied to future professions or occupations. The types of AT used will depend on the student’s disability, needs, work environment, and job tasks but will be similar to tools identified in the above areas. Once a student graduates from school and moves on to vocational opportunities or employment, their established AT tools and resources will most likely provide continued support. However, there may need to be an additional assessment of specific job tasks in order to match them with the right AT tools.
