The purpose of assistive technology is to help students with disabilities participate in and complete tasks they would not otherwise be able to complete. Students are able to be active participants in a classroom through the use of AT devices. These are available at all levels of education for all students to improve their overall academic success. In addition to improving participation, AT helps students learn to function independently, which is a skill that will help them succeed after they have they completed their education.
Several types of AT exist for use in a variety of school settings. These include communication, existence, mobility, positioning, environmental interaction and physical education. Each type has a variety of technologies available that can be used to enhance a student's education or improve his life in general. These range from such low tech devices as graph paper for students who have difficulty keeping their writing inside the lines to high-tech devices such as voice recognition software that allows a computer to recognize a student's voice and types what she is speaking.
A classroom teacher cannot simply begin to use an assistive technology device with a student who has a learning disability. Using these devices must be written into a student's Individualized Educational Plan (IEP) and agreed on by all members of the IEP team. The devices must have a specific educational purpose and be used regularly in order to have a positive impact on a student's success. A student's disabilities must take precedence over any other issue when choosing an assistive technology device.
Voice recognition software allows individuals with learning disabilities to type without using their hands. Speech synthesis software converts written words into speech with proper pronunciation. Using digital voice recorders allow an individual to read and hear what he said. Corrections in pronunciation can be made from his own voice. Concept mapping software helps individuals organize several concepts from reading materials.
Proper use of assistive technology can enhance learning and overall life experiences for individuals with learning disabilities. As new technology is created, there will be more opportunities for improving the lifestyle of individuals with learning disabilities. The potential benefits for assistive technology is unlimited and further advances are being pursued.