Upcoming Assistive Technology Trainings with DO-IT

By Andrea Mano 

So many of us use technology every day, including features that make us more efficient, such as speaking to a cell phone to create a text message. Similarly, technology can provide tools to give efficient and equal access to curriculum for students with disabilities.  

How are these technologies defined and provided for our students? 

The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) was founded in 1984, and today continues to provide information, training and community "to harness new technologies for improving education for students with disabilities." In their informational video, "The What and Why of Inclusive Technology", they describe Assistive Technology (AT) as one type of inclusive technology. 

Assistive Technology Industry Association (ATIA), describes Assistive Technology (AT) and lists possible funding sources. AT includes products, equipment, and systems that enhance learning, working, and daily living for persons with disabilities. Schools (K-12 as well as colleges) may provide these technologies. At a workplace, employers may provide AT as a worksite accommodation.  

During their summer programs, participants in two DO-IT programs (Scholars and NNL) are introduced to different AT, primarily related to laptops and Chromebooks. Low tech solutions include changing the color contrast or font choices on the laptop screen. Higher tech solutions include software that reads the screen out loud, assists with notetaking, mind-mapping, or grammar.  

Over the next several months, DO-IT will be hosting AT Trainings for participants. These trainings, held over Zoom, will review different AT solutions. 

Upcoming trainings will cover: