Activity 10

Introducing Students to Assistive Technology

What Students Do

This activity introduces students to the idea that AT can help them with their schoolwork. Books-on-tape, large-print books, hearing aids, computers with special programs, wheelchairs, and custom-made gadgets are examples of assistive technology. There are two sets of questions: one for those who currently use AT and one for those who don’t. Based on the students' responses to the question Do you already use Assistive Technology?, they will be guided to one of two sets of questions and eventually different activities.

Throughout this section, students record their thoughts on the Assistive Technology Self-Evaluation Guide.

Planning

Consider introducing this topic with the help of a guest speaker who uses assistive technology, demonstrating accessibility features on a computers, or visiting an AT lab. Make arrangements for the lab as necessary. Photocopy the Assistive Technology Self-Evaluation Guide or have the student download the worksheet.

Introducing the Activity

For students that currently use Assistive Technology, simply ask them to list the AT they use and why they use it. Encourage your students to think of no-tech, low-tech, and high-tech ways to lessen the effects of their limitations. The following are sample questions to help your students think of the equipment they use:

• Do you use something to get around that others typically don't use?



• What do you use to remember important information such as due dates for assignments, test dates, dates for your study group, and school activities?



• What do you use to take notes, do classroom assignments, complete worksheets, take tests and write papers?



• Do you use something to improve your sight? Your hearing?