What is Assistive Technology Continuum?!?

In the previous post, accessibility features were presented to help students with disabilities use the computer. In continuing with using assisted technology for helping make accommodations for students with disabilities, using other technologies can be used to help with these accommodations. Assistive technology continuum is the range of technology from low to high-tech devices used to make modifications and accommodations with students who have disabilities.

Examples of assisted technology continuum for computer use:

Low- Tech	Mid-Tech	High-Tech
·         Keyboard labels ·         Selecting/Pointing devices ·         Keyguards ·         Moisture guards	·         Trackballs ·         Joysticks ·         Expanded Keyboards ·         Mini-keyboards	·         Head-pointing systems ·         Eye-gaze systems ·         Customizable keyboards ·         On-screen keyboards

(Dell, 176-184)

The use of the assisted technology is significant, because it allows for several options to meet a child’s specific needs. If a low tech device does not help the child meet their IEP goals, then they can move to a mid-tech or high-tech device to better accommodate their needs. It gives the child a lot of options to help meet IEP goals and objectives.

Reference:

Dell, A. G., Newton, D. A., & Petroff, J. G. (2012). Assistive technology in the classroom: enhancing the school experiences of students with disabilities (2nd ed.). Boston: Pearson.