Assistive Technology Assignment

Jessica Flores Olguin

Computer Utilizations in Instr SEC.10
JD Clement Early College High School

The Assistive Technology Industry Association states that assistive technology is any
equipment or software which is used to improve or increase functions that people with
disabilities have difficulty in. The software known as Text-to-speech helps kids who have
difficulty taking notes and writing. Most smartphones and tablets have this software in which
students can record lessons in the classroom and hear the lectures at home to memorize or review
these lessons. (Amanda M.) I would use iPads to record and dictate instructions for assignments
that require the student to explore and think critically. I would also use iPads if I am absent and
leave assignments through a video through networking, this is beneficial because the student can
finish their work at home if they didnt at school. Jana M. (Reference below) states that teacher
must have intense training on the specific device for children with disabilities. Which means the
teacher must learn how to use all of the software, reboot problems, and make sure that the device
reaches the students academic goal. The cost for this device varies depending on which
company, for example an iPad cost around $200-$400. If a child needs financial aid for this
certain device, the parents may fill out an application for the 504 Plan which pays the device in
behalf of the school. The 504 Plan is only eligible to students that strongly need this form of
assistive technology. If one student is not eligible, the family can decide between low-interest
loans or to buy it themselves.(Jessica M.) I feel like using technology in the classroom makes
learning a little more equal and easier to comprehend main topics. Assistive technology would be
very useful in the classroom by letting there be a more equal access to the same information. I
would really like to have a learning environment in which all students can learn and access the
same information. I would not like to see a student that does not understand concepts because
they have difficulty with writing or because their needs are not fully fulfilled. Technology can be

used as visuals and dictation for instruction and benefits people in my classroom that have
trouble with lectures. The experience I believe should be in my classroom is that every students
need should have close and careful attention for their learning benefit.

Sources
Amanda, M. (2014, June 7). 8 Examples of Assistive Technology and Adaptive Tools.Retrieved
October 2, 2015, from
https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/assistive-technology/assistivetechnologies-basics/8-examples-of-assistive-technology-and-adaptive-tools#slide-1

Jana, M. (2008). XII. TRAINING FOR TEACHERS, STUDENTS, AND PARENTS. Retrieved
October 1, 2015, from http://www.atp.ne.gov/techassist/training.html
Jessica, M. (2014). Who Pays for Assistive Technology? Parents or Schools? Retrieved October 1,
2015,from
https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/assistive-technology/assistive-technologiesbasics/who-pays-for-assistive-technology-parents-or-schools
ATIA. (2014). What is Assistive Technology? How Is It Funded? (n.d.). Retrieved October 3,
2015, from http://www.atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3859