Getting Started with Section 2

Consider Your Own Knowledge of Assistive Technology

Many teachers who who started their career with 16-mm movie projectors, typewriters and the ditto machine may not be aware of new assistive technologies. New technology applications designed for education are emerging daily so even the most savvy of educators need to work at staying up-to date. Consider your own knowledge of assistive technology. If you are a beginner, time spent talking with experts and searching the World Wide Web will help you learn the basics.

• Block out time prior to the lesson to explore the same Web sites that are prescribed for students in Activities 13 and 15.



• Ask your special education administrators if assistive technology software is available on a loan basis while students are trying out these activities.



• Colleges and universities that are nearby may have an assistive technology lab where you can visit to get first hand experience.



• Inquire about arranging a field trip or about the possibility of sending individual students to explore on their own.



• Visit the Assistivetech Web site for many resources including a list of Assistive Technology Act State Resource Centers. Your state’s center will be able to assist you in finding local resources and may have loan programs of their own.