Assistive Technology Implementation Resources

Throughout this blog I have been discussing the process that the IEP team goes through when selecting AT. After the AT consideration process, the next step is implementing the assistive technology. Implementation planning is vital to successful use of assistive technology. For successful assistive technology implementation, a collaboratively developed assistive technology implementation plan must take place. The purpose of this post is to provide you with implementation resources that I have taken from my textbook. In this post I will provide you with a brief overview of my two favorites, however I encourage you to click the links and check them out for yourself! 

"First, have a definite, clear practical ideal; a goal, an objective... Second, have the necessary means to achieve your ends.. Third, adjust all your means to that end."

• Assistive Technology Implementation: Working Together to Make a Measurable Difference
• This is a complete instructional module on AT implementation from the Texas Assistive Technology Network that includes an implementation form. 
• Easy to read presentation slides on how to implement AT. 
• Key points...
• You can use AT to...
• support achievement goals
• expand educational/vocational options
• increase participation in educational settings and activities
• increase productivity
• increase independence
• increase quality of life
• The purpose of AT implementation is for students to use AT to actively participate in curricular and extra curricular activities.
• The result of AT implementation is increased academics and functional performance. 

"As the technology is integrated into the student's program, the implementation plan is adjusted to help move the student along the continuum to full integration."

• Making It Work: Effective Implementation of Assistive Technology Guide
• This introduction and seven downloadable sections are devoted to specific steps in the AT implementation process. 
• I love that this resource includes PDFs that you can download as well as specific samples of tools used for AT implementation. 
• Key points..
• Gather relevant information
• Establish IEP goals
• Conduct AT trials
• Identify AT solutions
• Develop AT implementation plan
• Equipment support task
• Proper equipment maintenance
• Staff and student training are essential
•  Meet regularly to discuss a student's IEP. These meetings also provide an opportunity to review AT implementation. 
• Adapt lessons for technology integration
• Follow up and plan transition