IEP's and Assistive Technology

In case you don't remember an IEP is an individualized education plan that is tailored for each individual student's needs.

Now that we've covered UDL and many AT devices and their components we can discuss how IEP's relate to AT.

IEP's and AT go hand in hand to help a student with disabilities.

There are many components to consider and this link, http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/Foundation/Assessment/chambers.pdf, shows a great flow chart of questions to consider when deciding if and what device would be useful for a student.

 

It's a pdf file that can be easily printed and stored for easy retrieval!

 

When you look at the flowchart the questions answered must be very specific, such what will be tried, when, how long, and what the environment will be. 

 I think it's most important to remember that consideration is an ONGOING process. Factors that may influence the process could be:
-a change in environment
- change in student need/skills
-new technology
It's important to be mindful of these changes and the progress or lack of that the child is making and whether the device is the right device for them.

I also think the other very important point is to remember to involve the student and parents as well in the decision making process of a device. As an educator it's easy to want to leave the job to the educators because we are knowledgeable and have the background, but I am always quickly reminded that when I involve a parent with the student and I, how much knowledge they actually do bring to the table in regards to "knowing" their child and lifestyle.

It's all about collaboration!!!
 I placed this picture here because I truly feel like it represents exactly what each individual on an IEP team is...a puzzle piece that is able to connect and learn and help the child grow.


How do you feel about IEP considerations and AT?