What is AT for Educational Productivity?
The purpose of AT for Educational Productivity is to assist the team in identifying specific supports to enable the student to maximize their access to the general and special education curriculum. Specialized Orthopedic Services for the Orthopedic Impaired or Physical or Health Impairment (OI/PHI) are under this category. The following are examples of Assistive Technology:
Low-Technology
- Pencil grips
- Slant boards
- Page ups
Mid-Technology
- Books on tape/CD/MP3
- Keyguards
High Technology
- Word processing devices
- Adaptive computer access— adaptive keyboards, joy sticks, touch screens, etc.
- Software: speech to text, word prediction
- Access to curricular materials: Bookshare, ebooks
Examples of Supportive Equipment
- Adaptive desks/tables
- Adaptive chairs
- Transfer boards
- Toileting equipment
These recommendations are made in collaboration with Physical Therapists and Occupational Therapists.
Service options, supportive equipment and assistive technology recommendations depend upon the identified needs of each student. Recommendations are reviewed, discussed and agreed upon by the IEP team.
What is Augmentative and Alternative Communication?
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) includes all forms of communication (other than oral speech) that is used to express thoughts, needs, wants and ideas. We all use AAC when we make facial expressions or gestures, use symbols or pictures, or write.
People with severe speech or language difficulties rely on AAC to supplement existing speech or replace speech that is not functional. Special augmentative supports such as picture and symbol communication boards and electronic devices, can help people express themselves. These devices can increase a person’s social interaction, school performance and feelings of self-worth.
AAC users should not stop using speech if they are able to do so. The AAC supports and devices are used to enhance communication, not replace speech.
What do PCOE AAC services provide?
PCOE provides specialized Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) services directed toward developing functional communication such as:
- Resources
- Evaluation
- Equipment access
- Programming
- Implementation instruction for educational teams and the individuals they support
