Rationale for Assistive Technology

Why Include Instruction on Assistive Technology?

Actually, we didn't originally. As we worked on developing these resources, we learned from college students that technology is of special importance to them.

It is common for college students with disabilities to use Assistive Technology (AT). Technology helps them meet the increased workload and the demand for organization. Tape recorders, speech recognition software, screen readers, and scanned text are just a few of the technologies available on campuses.

Not all students leave high school with knowledge and skill to use AT. Those who do start college with this experience are far better off. As with self-advocacy, becoming proficient with assistive technology takes practice and that practice takes time. Therefore, we recommend starting in 9th or 10th grade at the latest, earlier would be better.

This group of Activities builds on the Self-Advocacy Activities by requiring students to research effective technology accommodations. The Activities continue to urge students to take control of factors that influence learning.