| Assistive Technology - A Brief Overview |
Assistive technology (AT) tools may greatly improve the chances of success in school, work and life increasing self-reliance and independence. Costs can vary and range from a few dollars for "low tech" tools - pencil grips or calculator - to several thousand dollars or more for "high-tech" hardware and software. There is lots of information to think about when considering the many assistive technology tools available. Taking the time to learn all you can about possible tools, adaptations and strategies is important steps before making any real investment. Individuals have unique strengths, needs, talents, and interests. Learning Disabilities (LD) often affect the ability to listen, think, speak, read, write, spell, or do mathematical calculations. Individuals live, learn, and function in many settings - home, school, work, social, and recreational. An individual needs to explore and try out a tool or device first. AT doesn't necessarily fix or eliminate particular learning difficulties, but it can be used to make the most of strengths and bypass areas of difficulty. However, choosing the appropriate technology requires time and patience. The right tool depends on the individual need, the setting in which it will be used, and the task(s) to be accomplished. The more information and support during this process of discovery, the greater the chance for success. Assistive technology is not the same as instructional software that develops specific academic skills. Instructional software is more often used to develop or improve weaker skills in specific academic and or subject areas. It's different from assistive technology (AT) that is more about tools used to work around, or bypass, areas of difficulty. However, some instructional software can be customized with assistive features, adjustable skill levels - to meet an individuals needs.
|