This paper describes ergonomics and the need to adapt worksites and technologies for individuals with physical or sensory disabilities. It provides suggestions for how to design an appropriate setup, design considerations, environmental considerations, chairs, monitor height, ambient noise, light, and electricity. Recommendations include: (1)…

Describes the benefits of technology in special education and the use of electronic mail as an instructional strategy. Highlights the use of electronic mail by a student with Down syndrome to learn communication, reading, and written expression skills. Recommendations for using technology in the classroom are provided. (CR)

This technology information packet includes information about the technical aspects of access to technology, legal obligations concerning technology and individuals with disabilities, and a list of resources for further information and assistance. A question and answer section addresses: barriers to educational technology for students with…

This paper provides school districts with information about determining the need for and providing assistive technology services and devices to children and youth with disabilities. Determinations about the needs of students are made on a case by case basis through the development of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). Once the IEP…

This handout addresses the definition of assistive technology, how to assess assistive technology needs, and practical and ethical issues surrounding assistive technology. A functional assessment is urged to consider the following issues: (1) the special needs of the student; (2) the student's current abilities; (3) materials and equipment…

This paper contains an overview of technology, national support organizations, and IBM support available to persons with disabilities related to impairments affecting hearing, learning, mobility, speech or language, and vision. The information was obtained from the IBM National Support Center for Persons with Disabilities, which was created to…

This paper describes an inservice training program, developed collaboratively by the Idaho Assistive Technology Project and the Idaho State Department of Education, that is designed to increase the expertise of Idaho's special educators in the area of assistive technology. The lack of training Idaho's special educators have had in assistive…

This resource kit includes the following: Executive Summary; Legal Fact Sheet; Resource Guide; 26-minute "I Can Soar" Videotape; Video User's Guide; and Stories of Students Featured in Video. The materials provide tips to hep guide consumers in better integrating assistive technology (AT) within effective programs and services for children with…

Provides an overview of assistive technology for students with disabilities in inclusive settings and legal considerations regarding assistive technology. Recommendations are given to help teachers maximize assistive technology to facilitate instruction, including finding the lowest technology solution and collaborating with other teachers and…

This newsletter describes promising research in applying technology in the curriculum to improve learning opportunities for students with disabilities. Topics addressed include: (1) promoting access to early childhood curriculum; (2) considering assistive technology in the IEP; (3) using a web-based curriculum for elementary students with mild…

This digest discusses how assistive technology (AT) for students with disabilities can expand access to the general education curriculum. It begins by describing the Education TECH Point system which offers educators a strategy for identifying specific points in the planning process where AT should be considered, including: initial referral…

This paper summarizes principles of the Technology Access for Arkansans project initiated in 1989 to: (a) identify needs and quality of technology provisions in Arkansas; (b) disseminate information about appropriate technology and funding; (c) educate Arkansans about technology and advocacy; (d) develop a coordinated state plan for technology;…

A questionnaire examining consumer needs, spending, travel, credit options and utilization practices in adaptive/assistive and educational technology was answered by 2,201 Arkansans with disabilities of all ages. This paper focuses on data on respondents with speech impairments, although most respondents reported multiple handicaps. While most…

A questionnaire examining consumer needs, spending, travel, credit options and utilization practices in adaptive/assistive and educational technology was answered by 2,201 Arkansans with disabilities of all ages. This paper emphasizes results relating to Arkansans with mental retardation. Results indicate Medicare/Medicaid as the single most…

This resource guide is designed to provide a quick reference for professionals in education and employment who work with students with disabilities. The guide suggests ways that assistive technology may improve and expand the academic career and employment opportunities of students with disabilities. Specific assistive technology solutions are…