I Think I Work with a Student who Needs Assistive Technology. What Do I Do Now?

Have you ever worked with a student who is having difficulty and may need additional support? Paraeducators often observe these struggles in reading, writing, math, organization, communication, self-care, and a number of other areas. Assistive technology tools and systems may be one way in which support can be provided and help a student be successful. This session discusses when and why a student may need assistive technology along with different examples of assistive technologies that may be used to help support students with disabilities within the school environment.This session will also cover how paraeducators may be involved in the process of helping a student to be an effective user of assistive technology to make progress in school-based tasks and to participate meaningfully in school activities.

Learning outcomes:

1. Participants will explain the purpose of assistive technology noting at least 3 key functions of assistive technology.

2. Participants will state at least 3 characteristics of students who may be potential candidates for assistive technology.

3. Participants will identify at least 5 potential assistive technologies that may help students with whom they work.

4. Participants will state at least 5 strategies paraeducators may use to help students be successful when using assistive technology.