ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY & AIM
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
Assistive technology is any kind of technology that can be used to enhance the functional independence of a person with a disability. Often, for people with disabilities, accomplishing daily tasks such as talking with friends, going to school and work, or participating in recreational activities is a challenge. Assistive Technology (AT) devices are tools to help to overcome those challenges and enable people living with disabilities to enhance their quality of life and lead more independent lives.
Assistive technology can be anything from a simple (low-tech) device such as a magnifying glass, to a complex (high-tech) device, such as a computerized communication system. It can be big — an automated van lift for a wheelchair — or small — a grip attached to a pen or fork by Velcro. Assistive technology can also be a substitute — such as an augmentative communication device that provides vocal output for a child who cannot communicate with her voice.
UNDERSTANDING THE LAW AND ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY (AT):
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY (AT) AND TRANSITION PLANNING:
What are Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM)?
Accessible instructional materials, or AIM, are materials that are designed or converted in a way that makes them usable across the widest range of student variability regardless of format (print, digital, graphic, audio, video). IDEA (the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act) specifically focuses on accessible formats of print instructional materials. In relation to IDEA the term AIM refers to print instructional materials that have been transformed into the specialized formats of braille, large print, audio, or digital text.
UNDERSTANDING THE LAW AND ACCESSIBLE INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS (AIM):
FINDING THE RIGHT ACCESSIBLE INSTRUCTIONAL MATERIALS (AIM) FOR YOU:
Useful Web Links:
Links to Publications: