IEP Considerations and Assistive Technology

In previous post I discussed various assistive technology devices and how to utilize them for students with special needs. Before students are able to utilize these devices, considerations must be made in the student's IEP. IDEA requires every student to be considered for assistive technology during the IEP process. The IEP requires teachers and other professionals to explain why assistive technology is will or will not be required.

As technology can be costly and time consuming, I LOVE that teachers are asked to prove why assistive technology is not required as it may be overlooked or never taken into consideration. Several factors must be taken into considerations when involving assistive technology. The setting in which the student will use the device, whether the device is for a specific subject, the student's needs or difficulties he or she maybe experiencing must all be taken into consideration when considering assistive technology.

After determining the student's needs for assistive technology the school district or agency is responsible for the cost (purchase or lease), maintenance, training, repairs, and evaluations. Below you will find a link for a checklist from the Wisconsin Assistive Technology Initiative. The checklist breaks down the process of considering assistive technology for a student.

AT Checklist