12: Assistive Technologies and Innovative
Learning Tools
Learning Outcomes
After studying this chapter, students should be able to:
• 12–1 Analyze the role of technology in the 21st century classroom and how
assistive technology plays an integral part.
• 12–2 Define and give examples of the terms “assistive technology devices” and
“assistive technology services.”
INTASC Standards
Standard #2: Learning Differences. The teacher uses understanding of individual differences and
diverse cultures and communicates to ensure inclusive learning environments that enable
each learner to meet high standards.
Council for Exceptional Children
Special educators are to have knowledge of the following:
Standard #1: Learner Development and Individual Learning Differences. Beginning special
education professionals understand how exceptionalities may interact with development
and learning and use this knowledge to provide meaningful and challenging learning
Chapter Outline
12–1 National Education Technology Plan: Learning Powered by Technology
12–1a Technology in the 21st Century Classroom
12–2 Definition of Assistive Technology
12–2a Examples of Assistive Technology
1. Communication Aids
3. Ergonomic Aids
5. Sensory Aids
7. Seating and Positioning Aids
9. Computer Access Aids
12–3 Assistive Technology: Key to Accessing the General Education Curriculum
12–3a Accessible Educational Materials
12–3b Academic Outcomes
12–3d Differentiated Instruction, Learning Menus, and Assistive Technology
12–4 Obtaining Assistive Technology for the Classroom
12–4a Whose Responsibility Is It?
12–5 Selecting Assistive Technology: The SETT Framework
12–5a Student
12–5b Environment
12–5d Tools
12–6 Active Learning Through Innovative Technology
12–6b Visual and Media Literacy Tools
12–6c Opportunities Through Technology
Key Concepts and Terms
accessible educational materials: Materials that are designed or converted in a way
that makes them usable across the widest range of student variability regardless of
format (print, digital, graphical, audio, video).
blogs: Web–based writing spaces intended to publish journal entries, research, opinions,
artwork, and so on are published electronically.
concept maps: Visual organizers for a specific topic or concept used by learners to
construct personal meaning and connect new information to prior knowledge.
digital storytelling: A method of telling stories that uses a variety of multimedia tools,
enough to fit in the pocket) that can be used for communication and collaboration, as
well as assessing information.
info murals: Representations of information in the form of large, often bigger than life–
size visuals featuring many different types of messages.
infographics: Visual displays of data or other large amounts of information presented in
text messaging: Short messages sent via mobile phones, handheld devices, or
computers.
wiki: Web–based tool that enables multiple users to work together on the same
document or content by adding, removing, or editing content in a seamless manner.
Lecture Notes
Teacher comfort level in using technology is essential to technology integration in the
classroom. Education of tomorrow must look closely and gain insight to the impact of
technology on thinking and learning for student achievement. Assistive technology is not
a luxury, it is a necessity for individuals with disabilities to achieve everyday tasks to
reach their dreams and aspirations. There are 10 common areas of assistive technology:
• Communication
• Daily Living
• Mobility and transportation
• Seating and positioning
• Recreation and leisure
• Computer access
• Education and learning
Assistive technology is not a one–size–fits–all concept. Teachers must carefully look at
the individual strengths and needs of each student and what technology would be
Suggestions for In–Class or Online Activities
2. Describe how educational materials are made accessible.
4. Describe the process for acquiring assistive technology for a learner with
disabilities.
Discussion Questions
1. Is our educational system designed for the learning styles of digital natives?
2. Do sports, recreation, and leisure aids support inclusion in the classroom?
3. When considering the use of assistive technology, which type of solution should
be tried first: no–tech, low–tech, or high–tech? Why?
4. Could the use of assistive technologies in schools affect the definition of LRE for
a particular student or group of students? Why or why not?
5. What type of student might benefit from the use of graphic novels in reading
instruction? Why?
6. How has the field of technology changed education in the last 20 years?
7. How do you feel about using biometrics in schools?
Field Experiences
1. Visit a local classroom and observe how the learners use technology. How
does the teacher interact with the learners as they used the technology?
Videos
Watch the MindTap video and have the class answer the questions in small groups.
1. How will technology change classrooms in the future? How has it already?
2. What are the impacts of the use of technology on education?
Web Resources