AT Consideration in the IEP Process

As a follow up to my last post, I continued on to a second module named "AT Consideration in the IEP Process".  As someone who has never been a part of the IEP process before, I found the module to be very helpful and informative.

There was some terminology that stuck out to me, that I would like to share with you.

AT Devices: "includes any special equipment or technology that children may need to help them participate in school"

AT Services: required for the selection, acquisition, and/or use of AT devices

The purpose of AT consideration is to determine whether or not AT is needed in order for a student to access a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

As I read about the Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services (QIAT) Consortium, it came to my attention that sometimes AT is only considered for students with severe disabilities.  That is not how it should be!  Legally, AT must be considered for all students, regardless of their disability.  If a student has a mild disability but it prevents them from performing at their best and there is AT that could help the student improve their performance, it seems like a no brainer that the student should utilize the AT, right??  I think so!

Another important piece of information I learned is that there are three verdicts that an IEP team may conclude, in terms of AT:

1. "AT is not needed.  The student is making adequate progress with the available instruction and interventions. Indicate "no".
2. AT is needed.  Indicate "yes" and describe in the IEP how, when, and where the new or current devices and services will be provided.
3. AT is needed, but the IEP team is unsure of what devices and services are most appropriate.  Indicate "yes", and the team will decide the areas in which AT will be tried and then gather data to determine the best solution.  The team may explore resources within or from outside the district to adequately assess the student's needs for AT.  In the IEP document, describe the need for an AT assessment as a service."

Throughout this course I am constantly trying to connect new information to the practical use in a classroom.  There always seems to be such a diverse group of learners in any classroom, which is why this information is so critical.  I am always trying to find new ways to reach all students and this AT information is extremely helpful.  It's helpful for me, as an educator, to know the wide variety of AT that is available and to know that no matter the disability, AT must be considered!  This way the student can be given the best chance at becoming independent and successful in their educational experience.

Module: AT Consideration in the IEP Process