In the reading on what it means for AT devices seems very vague. I feel like it doesn't give clear information what type of assistive technology one can use. AT can run from a simple homemade device to a computer device. I think teachers have a hard time knowing the difference. Unless it is about money then you know which one can be used. In my past I made AT devices for students because I was a one-one-aide to them. I knew my student better then anyone. It used to get me mad when the special education teacher would step in and try to tell me to do something with the student. The teacher never had any real time with students because there was about eight students in the class. Who were all highly autistic with different sensory issues. Most mornings we were just trying to get the students to feel comfortable at school. Some had issues with noise, touching certain things, eating, violent behavior, screaming, and even a change in schedule.
The teachers aides are the ones who came up with AT devices for the students. We made pictures and put them in order on a board. We had recorded voices on a four button control board. We did a lot and even got beat-up sometimes by the student. No pun intended, just reality. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w9mhONOVxLg this is a short video on AT
http://www.cbsnews.com/news/ny-blind-high-school-teacher-sees-students-like-no-other-educator/ This a teacher who is blind and teaches in Farmingdale, NY. What an inspiration to all educators. AT hasn't been around long enough but this teacher has adapted to all the changes and is one of the best.
I agree that it seems vague. You don't know if they are talking about $5 or $5,000. Plus I am sure insurance gets in the way of what kind of devices a student can use and how much they will pay for it. I do feel that many times the AT device is made by the teacher or teacher assistant and considered low-tech or no-tech. Sometimes these are the best ones. I'm wondering if the law covers something like an iPad which is around $300.
ReplyDeleteI also agree that AT can be very vague. I also don't believe that teachers always know of all the ATs that are available for use, nor the best one for use. I think when considering AT, the entire CSE team needs to think and have input. ATs should always be about what is best for the student and help the student achieve their goal in learning.
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