Assistive Technology for Students with Visual Impairments
In today's society, technology plays an important part in the lives of all individuals. For students with visual impairments, the need for assistive technology is of paramount importance in assuring the students' access to a wide-range of functional, educational, and social opportunities.
The legal definition of an assistive technology device, according to IDEA, is any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. For students with visual impairments, it also creates a more even "playing field" which permits those students to compete more effectively within the educational setting and with their sighted peers in today's job market.
In the area of visual impairment, assistive technology is divided into two broad categories: Low Vision devices and Blindness devices depending upon the individual's functional vision capabilities or lack of vision.
Assistive technology may run the continuum from "no tech" environmental adaptations and modifications to "low tech" magnification including magnifiers and large print materials; audio books and tape recorders; use of a cane or the use of a Braille Writer or slate and stylus to "high tech" devices such as modified computer systems, portable note takers, CCTV (Closed Circuit Television), refreshable Braille displays and reading systems for both low vision and blind students.
The provision of assistive technology is highly individualized and should only be provided after the student has had an assistive technology evaluation. It should be remembered that there is no "best way or best device," only the one that works best for each student based upon their specific needs in a variety of settings. The goal for each student should be to maximize their independence in all areas of life and to prepare them to be contributing members of society.
For more information, please contact:
Trisha Kress
LATC Vision
IU1 Educational Campus at Laboratory
724-222-1040
kresst@iu1.k12.pa.us
