EDUC 477/698O:

Assistive Technology/Universal Design for the General Classroom Settings

Author: Juie Gaster

1. Visit http://www.enablemart.com/default.aspx?store=10&dept=24. What are some keyboard and mice devices that can be used for individuals with disabilities instead of a traditional keyboard and mouse? What are some AT devices that can be used especially for communication?
2. Visit http://www.ncrel.org/sdrs/areas/issues/methods/technlgy/te7appendix.htm, how has some of the local school systems used AT grant money to increase learning? What were the outcomes of some of the grants?
3. Did the use of AT devices increase student learning or test scores in some cases?
4. Visit http://aac.unl.edu/yaack/b1.html, what are some factors in determining if a child needs augmentative communication? What are some strategies or questions that should be asked in choosing an AT device?
5. Go to the http://www.atia.org/ website, what is the mission statement of the ATIA, and who does this organization represent? How does this website define AT and what are some goals of this organization?
6. Visit http://www.ataccess.org/resources/atk12/whatknow.html, what are some examples of AT and when is it required? Who pays for AT if it is needed for a child/student?

• Answers by Yolanda Brooks
• Answers by Adena Raub

Answers submitted by Author: Yolanda Brooks

1. Some of the keyboards and mice devices include:
   1) The Adjustable Ergonomic Keyboard
   2) The Maxim Adjustable Keyboard
   3) The Professional Keyboard.

   AT devices used especially for communication include:
   1) Gus! Pocket Communicator
   2) Step-by-Step communicator
   3) Tech Talk
   4) Aurora Suite

2. Some local school systems used AT grant money to increase learning through:

   1) Working on improving written communication skills
   2) Implementing AT in general classroom
   3) Working on improving communication for kids who use PCS.

   Great outcomes were seen in a lot of the counties. They include:
   1) Baltimore – improved written communication in 10 schools
   2) Allegany – they increased their MSPAP scores by 10% for 3rd & 5th graders
   3) Prince Georges – created a training program for staffer

3. Yes – Allegany county

4. Some factors/questions to be asked in determining if a child needs augmentative communication include:
   1) determine whether the child’s quality of life would be increased with the use of the device
   2) they directly tie the child’s quality to these three aspects: whether they will be able to control their environment, socialization, and conversations.
   3) If the child’s speech is delayed or not expected to develop
   4) Whether the academic, social, cognitive development will be diminished because of his lack of communication

5. The mission of the ATIA is to provide conferences and education regarding AT. I didn’t see anything on the webpage titled a mission statement though.

   They represent manufacturers of assistive technology devices/services.
   According to this organization, AT is defined as “any item, piece of equipment, product or system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.”
   The goals of this organization are to have AT conferences which will provide education to those interested in using AT. The conferences are open to professionals, teachers, physicians, etc. They also work with organizations and the government as a “common voice”.

6. Some examples of AT are switch talking devices, computer scanners, Alpha smart keyboards to take notes, book stands, talking calculator, voice amplifier, and a reconfigured keyboard.

   AT is required for any child with a disability deemed appropriate and for any working individual.

   AT can be paid for by medicare, Medicaid, schools, social security, and insurance.

Answers submitted by Author: Adena Raub

1. Alternatives to standard keyboards and mice include everything from large key keyboards to keyboards with no letters at all, but just toggles, as well as joysticks in the place of mice.

   Communication products include devices to speak for a user, both on a pc and in the portable form.

2. The grant money was used for equipment and training for students with disabilities to improve communications skills.
3. In most cases, test scores rose and student achievement increased.
4. At different stages, if the child is demonstrating behavior that is not progressing normally, such as an inability to use oral reflexes, a child may be considered for augmented communication.
5. The ATIA’s mission is to serve as a voice for the AT community, to provide the best possible AT opportunities for people with disabilities. The site describes AT as “any item, piece of equipment, product or system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.” The organization’s goals are to successfully hold AT conferences and also to publicize the need for AT and developments in the field.
6. Examples include a talking switch, special keyboards, copies of notes from other students using specific paper, etc… The exact standard for the need of AT is debatable, but schools are required to provide for those who show need.Many different sources fund AT like Medicare, Medicaid, insurance, school districts, and specific organizations.