Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology in education and in the classroom. Assistive Technology (AT) is a recent term in the education field, but the concept is ancient. AT refers to any invented object, system, or approach that aids a disabled individual to overcome the limits of their handicaps and continue to learn and develop. AT includes such simple things as special pencil grips, and advanced concepts such as augmentative communication devices, alternative computer access, and specialized software. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) mandates the use of AT in the schools, as a tool for access and independence for disabled students. Use the links provided here to locate resources on Assistive Technology.


AbleData.com: Assistive Technology Information Guide
An information resource on assistive technology, a database of assistive technology products, news and publications, and links on various topics.

Apple Computer Corporation: Disability Connection Forum
Hardware and software solutions for persons with disabilities, including freeware, shareware, and over 100 add-ons for access to the Macintosh.

Developmental Research for the Effective Advancement of Memory and Motor Skills: Online Children's Assistive Technology Guide
Assistive technology information for parents and nonspecialists, with feature articles, device and software vendors, and links to related websites.

International Business Machines: Special Needs Solutions and Resources Guide
IBM products designed for those with mobility, vision, speech, hearing, or learning disabilities, with guidelines for software and Web developers.

Microsoft Corporation: Microsoft Developer Network News: Need for Accessibility
An article outlining current (1998) Microsoft visions promoting accessibility for all computer users, including those with physical disabilities.

Raised Dot Computing: Braille Products Information and Resources Guide
Raised Dot Computing offers information and resources pertaining to the company's innovative Braille assistive technology product, "MegaDots."

Rochester Institute of Technology, New York: Equal Access to Software
Research and materials for parents, teachers and kids on adaptive technology, from Equal Access to Software and Information (EASI) at RIT.

Roger Rachow: Assistive Technology Disabilities Resources Guide
An exploration of the categories of assistive technology, with related links, information on corporate initiatives, and national organizations.

Universal Learning Technology: Education and Interactive Tools Development Guide
Information from this developer of educational, interactive tools with universal design; an online tour of the design-oriented tool Bravo!

University of Delaware, Newark: Applied Science and Engineering Laboratories
This directory of links to information on assistive technology covers organizations, devices, policy, funding, research, training, and more.
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