Introduction to the Assistive Technology Resource Center
Assistive Technology and Augmentative and Alternative Communication
Who is the ATRC?
“Any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.” (ATIA.org)
In the school setting, this applies directly to educational tasks.
Prompt:
-Raise your hand if you have students who have used assistive technology
-Put it in the chat - can you give an example of what your students have used?
How do I know which AT to use in my classroom?
Some examples that can be used in your classroom:
If you have students with physical disabilities who need alternative access, please check out the following resources
Switch Access Google Classrooms (scroll to near the bottom of our trainings)
What is AAC?
AAC means all of the ways that someone communicates besides talking. People of all ages can use AAC if they have trouble with speech or language skills. Augmentative means to add to someone’s speech. Alternative means to be used instead of speech. Some people use AAC throughout their life. Others may use AAC only for a short time, like when they have surgery and can’t talk.
Put in the chat - what do you think of when you hear AAC?
Low/Lite Tech
Mid Tech
High Tech
How do I know if my student is supposed to have their own device?
First check the student’s IEP:
Under A/M Special Factors
Section D: Augmentative and Alternative Communication Need
This section will be checked YES
Next, the team will list what AAC items are available at the SCHOOL. These are to be provided at the school level.
The IEP will then ask if an AAC evaluation has been completed, and the date of the completed AAC report in SSM will be listed:
The features of the systems recommended in the AAC report will be listed. These are items that are provided by our department. As an example, a student for whom an iPad based application as well as low tech supports have been recommended will have the following load automatically into special factors:
Strategies for AAC use in the classroom
Use single message buttons (e.g. big macks or talking brix) to support initiation and communication within routines
Programming activity specific words into a multi-message device (e.g. “I see” “you see” while reading Brown Bear, “look” “touch” “like” “soft” at a sensory station)
Paper based communication boards can be used in any environment and are a great way to get started with symbol based communication!
Be sure to look in closets and school storage - many devices have been assigned to classrooms over the years and things get misplaced!
My student needs more AT and/or AAC than is available in my classroom. What can I do?
Submit a referral in SSM for someone from our team to come to your school to evaluate your student and determine next steps.
How do I submit a Referral in SSM?
On a student’s page in SSM, “Create New Document” > “Assistive Technology Referral” > “Go” > check “Assistive Technology Referral” (standard) > “New”
Section 12: Indicate what the student is being referred for
Check AT if access to the curriculum is limited (in any case where switches are being considered)
Check AAC if communication is also limited. Include the SLP in the process of filling out the referral.
Some things to note in the referral...
Section 14: What Assistive Technology is being considered?
This is an important place to can include information about the equipment you used during your evaluation.
Some things to note in the referral...
When Will the Evaluation Take Place?
Resources
General Email: assistivetech@cps.edu
ATRC Contact List (again!)
Questions!
We will also go over questions that were in the Google Form.