Assistive Technology

Assistive technology assists students with disabilities to increase their overall capacity to work, accomplish specific tasks, or participate in activities that otherwise might have been difficult or impossible. Assistive technology includes both devices and services.

An assistive technology device is "any device, piece of equipment, or product system whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability." Devices range in complexity from "low tech" (highlighters, modified paper) to "high tech" (laptops, software).

Assistive technology services support children with a disability in selecting, acquiring, or using an assistive technology device. Services may include functional evaluations and training in the use of the device.

District Assistive Technology Lending Libraries enable schools to borrow a device or specialized software to be used on a trial basis with students. This trial use assists the school in determining whether the device or software is a successful match for the student and improves the student's performance. To find out more about the Lending Library in a particular district, contact the district special education coordinator.

Area Assistive Technology Consultants are available to provide additional information. They may be contacted at:

• DoDDS Europe
• DoDDS Pacific and Guam
• DDESS and Cuba (CONUS schools)

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