Tools for ALL Learners

Overview

Various laws, legislation and initiatives define assistive technologies and guide how technology should be used with diverse learners.

This section provides examples of the legal requirements and current initiatives that influence and guide the use of technology within the classroom.

Selected Reading

Title: To Leave No Child Behind

Citation: O’Neill, L.M. (2005). To leave no child behind. Threshold, Winter, 18-21, 30.

URL: www.ciconline.org/thresholdwinter05 

Use Information: “Download these thought-provoking PDF documents -- print them, save them, forward them to friends & colleagues.”

See Also

Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology Section 2: Assistive Technology in Schools, from the Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) at www.fctd.info/resources/fig

• A Free and Appropriate Public Education is required for all learners.
• Assistive Technology must be considered for all students with disabilities.
• NCLB mandates the use of research based practices and technology tools to support all learners in P-12 classrooms.
• 504 plans delineate accommodations and modifications (including AT) for students with disabilities who do not qualify for special education and an IEP.
• The education of each and every learner is a shared responsibility

Extension and Reflection

Consider the Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology (from FCTD – see above). Is this a resource that you would want to forward to families? Would it be useful as a resource for paraeducators or others with whom you work? Why or why not?

Additional Resources

• Overview of AT Laws at http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/Foundation/Laws Assistive Technology Training Online Project (ATTO), University of Buffalo

• An Overview of ADA, IDEA, and Section 504: Update 2001, ERIC Digest #E606, at www.hoagiesgifted.org/eric/e606.html