Assistive Technology (AT)
Mission Statement
Definition of Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology (AT) includes low-tech and high-tech products that enable people with disabilities to be more productive and independent. Assistive technology includes a wide range of products, from simple to complex and inexpensive to expensive. Examples of low-tech AT include pencil grips, tactile rulers, raised line paper, graph paper, large print text, adapted scissors, slant boards, Velcro, magnetic strips, magnifiers, highlighters, page flags, color transparencies, rubber stamps, timers, typewriter key guards, and teacher-made communication boards to name only a few.
An assistive technology device is any “item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability. The term does not include a medical device that is surgically implanted, or the replacement of that device.” [20 USCS §1401(1)(2)34 C.F.R. 300.5].
An assistive technology service refers to any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. This includes the following for a child with a disability:
- The evaluation of the needs of such child, including a functional evaluation of the child in his or her customary environment;
- Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by children with disabilities;
- Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices;
- Coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices;
- Training or technical assistance for a child with a disability, or, if appropriate, the child’s family; and
- Training or technical assistance for professionals, employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of that child.
[20 USCS §1401(1)(2)34 C.F.R. 300.6].
Assistive Technology Consideration Resource Guides
ADE/ESS Assistive Technology Short-Term Loan Library
- You can find required forms here.
ADE AT Loan Library Infomercial Video
For Parents
Understood – for learning & attention issues
Hey, Can I try That? – A Student Handbook for Choosing and Using Assistive Technology
Additional Resources
Az-Tech’s Assistive Technology Symbaloos
A Symbaloo is a visual bookmarking tool that makes it easy for you to navigate to websites and other resources referenced during our various assistive technology trainings. No more keeping track of paper handouts, no more Googling to find “that thing you saw at that training.” We’ve collected it all for you and put it all in one place.
We currently have Symbaloos related to AT for Math, Free AT, AT Consideration, Video Modeling, and more.
OCALI’s FREE Assistive Technology Internet Modules
“ATIM is designed to provide high-quality information and professional development on assistive technology (AT) for educators, professionals, families, persons with disabilities, and others. Each module guides you through case studies, instructional videos, pre- and post-assessments, a glossary, and much more. ATIM modules are available at no cost.”
The A.T.TIPScast
Assistive Technology Tools In Public Schools is a podcast about using technology to help students meet their educational goals.
AT Builders Series 2019-2020
We are excited to bring to you the AT Builders Series, developed to allow participants to pick and choose which subject areas of assistive technology they wish to build upon. Participants may attend one or all of these full-day workshops to gain additional expertise in the subject areas. Each session is led by a nationally known assistive technology leader. In-depth information and resources are delivered to help teachers, therapists, administrators and parents make informed decisions about assistive technology and how the AT can be implemented and supported in the classroom.
Each workshop will include a working lunch activity.
Attend and enjoy building your AT knowledge and skills.
All this and more for the fantastic price of $20.
Building a Solid Foundation with Chris Bugaj
Learn how to use technology to design educational experiences which empower students of all abilities to take control of their own learning. Practice practical applications for how to leverage contemporary educational practices such as Universal Design for Learning, The Growth Mindset, Project Based Learning, The Least Restrictive Option, The Maker Movement, and Open Educational Resources to improve your practice and outcomes! Come to the session as an ordinary, everyday educator and leave transformed as an Educational Experience Designer with enhanced skills and abilities! Chris Bugaj – author and assistive technology guru, will be your instructor through this 2-day introductory workshop.
When: September 27-28, 2019
Time for both days: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Alhambra Elementary School district
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders1
Schedule for both days
- Registration Starts: 7:30 am
- Training Start time: 8:00 am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Training End time: 3:30 pm
AT Consideration and Assessment with Penny Reed
Are you looking for an efficient, effective way to determine a student’s need for Assistive Technology? This activity packed workshop will present a team-based model for completing AT consideration and assessment. It begins with a brief overview of the laws related to the provision of AT services in schools including AT Consideration and Assessment. You will examine and discuss AT Consideration forms to determine what features you like. Then an AT Assessment process will be explained. Specific, easy to follow forms will be provided. You will use the forms for guided practice in completing the AT Assessment process. It is most beneficial if you can attend as a team. Penny Reed, PhD, co-author of Education Tech Points and Leading the Way to Excellence in AT Services will unpack this one day training for you.
When: October 29, 2019
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Arizona Department Of Education – Central
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders2
Schedule
- Registration Starts: 7:30 am
- Training Start time: 8:00 am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 11:00 am – 12:00 pm
- Training End time: 3:30 pm
Building Literacy Skills with AT and AAC with Lauren Enders
Description TBA
When: December 9, 2019
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Arizona Department Of Education
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders3
Schedule
- Registration Starts: 8:30am
- Training Start time: 9:00am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 12:00am – 1:00pm
- Training End time: 4:30pm
Google Chrome for Curriculum Construction with Mike Marotta
From the G Suite to Chrome extensions to built in accessibility settings, Google can support all learners in your classroom. Join us as we explore tools to assist students in the areas of reading, writing and math, as well as with executive functioning skills that include time management, organization, task completion and focus. We will not only explore the tools, but we will dive into effective technology implementation. Focusing on ways to provide effective coaching to students, staff, IT and administrators to lead to success with technology.
When: February 25, 2020
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Arizona Department Of Education
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders4
Schedule
- Registration Starts: 7:30am
- Training Start time: 8:00am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 11:00am – 12:00pm
- Training End time: 3:30pm
Mobile Learning Construction Tools with Tony Vincent
Using technology no longer requires sitting at a desk. Laptops, tablets, phones, and the cloud give us mobile superpowers! Students and teachers have a wide-range of tools to help them be creative and productive, and the technology is more accessible than ever. Technology can engage and empower students in the classroom, and it can help students make the most of their strengths and support their needs. Tony Vincent, a pioneer in digital learning, is your guide as you explore QR codes, accessibility options, apps, extensions, and study aids at this 1 day class. Be sure to bring your mobile technology with you.
When: March 31, 2020
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Arizona Department Of Education
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders5
Schedule
- Registration Starts: 7:30am
- Training Start time: 8:00am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 11:00am – 12:00pm
- Training End time: 3:30pm
Building Better AT Solutions with Judith Schoonover
With the right supports, all students can learn. Meaningful participation can be facilitated by altering access, content, materials and tools. Matching needs with “the right tool for the job” for students from cradle to career is a skill and a challenge. Determining supports and strategies that are “least restrictive”, implementing Universal Design for Learning (UDL) practices, or selecting needed assistive technology as a member of an educational team is an ongoing process. To build capacity of all stakeholders, it is important to work together, sharing effective practices about the use of a continuum of tools to enable optimal student learning outcomes. Participants will make a low tech toolkit from easily found materials to support student needs and will have access to a digital toolkit to begin or continue that process.
When: April 28, 2020
Time: 8:00 am – 3:30 pm
Where: Sunnyside Unified School District
Registration: http://bit.ly/atbuilders6
Schedule
- Registration Starts: 7:30am
- Training Start time: 8:00am
- Working Lunch – Includes a Make and Take: 11:00am – 12:00pm
- Training End time: 3:30pm
AT Builders Series Regional Trainings 2019-2020
Tools and Strategies for the Disorganized Student – Presented by Mitch Galbraith
Executive function skills enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and regulate our behavior- all skills that are essential in the classroom- and in life! Weak executive functions are associated with a wide range of disabilities, including ADHD, Autism SD, Bipolar Disorder, LD and TBI. Luckily, there are many tools and strategies to help our students compensate for deficits in executive function, regardless of disability.
In this training, we will explore low- to high-tech assistive technology tools and strategies to support students with weak executive functions. Special attention will be paid to supports for planning and time management, organization of materials, and organization of information. There will be demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on experience with a variety of tools. You might even find news way to get yourself organized!
When: September 10, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Snowflake Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/SnowflakeEF
I Can Read That!/The Write Stuff! – Presented by Margaret Egan
Many students struggle with academic tasks in the core areas of reading and writing. Assistive technology can help our students overcome barriers by increasing their access to the curriculum and help them be more successful and independent in the classroom. The selection of assistive technology to support students in the curriculum can sometimes be a daunting task for an IEP team. In this training participants will learn about a variety of tools and strategies to help support their students in the areas of reading and writing. Many of the tools are free or low cost and easily accessible in a variety of settings. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for questions. Information will be given on how to acquire these tools and where to go for support when needed.
When: September 11, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Snowflake Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/SnowflakeRW
Assistive Technology FREE for All – Presented by Bruce Kennedy
Assistive Technology (AT) software and applications to support students in accessing the curriculum and engaging in activities of daily living can be costly, but there are many low cost and FREE options. This fast paced informational and demonstration session will highlight several FREE iOS, Android, Chrome, Windows and internet options that are available to support students in reading, writing, mATh, and ADL’s. Participants will be provided with a very extensive compendium of FREE AT resources. Attend this session so you will be FREE to make good AT choices with your students.
When: September 12, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Snowflake Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/SnowflakeFree
AT is in the mATh – Get ready to calculate – Bruce Kennedy
This training will provide an overview of tools and strategies to support all students in accessing and benefiting from the mATh curriculum. Come to this training to calculATe your student’s mATh support needs. This training is designed for secondary education.
When: September 25, 2019
Time: 7:00 am – 9:00 am
Where: Sunnyside Unified School District
Register Now:http://bit.ly/TucsonATisinMath
AT is in the mATh – Get ready to calculate – Bruce Kennedy
This training will provide an overview of tools and strategies to support all students in accessing and benefiting from the mATh curriculum. Come to this training to calculATe your student’s mATh support needs. This training is designed for elementary and middle school education.
When: September 25, 2019
Time: 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm
Where: Sunnyside Unified School District
Register Now:http://bit.ly/TucsonATisinMath2
Tools and Strategies for the Disorganized Student – Presented by Mitch Galbraith
Executive function skills enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and regulate our behavior- all skills that are essential in the classroom- and in life! Weak executive functions are associated with a wide range of disabilities, including ADHD, Autism SD, Bipolar Disorder, LD and TBI. Luckily, there are many tools and strategies to help our students compensate for deficits in executive function, regardless of disability.
In this training, we will explore low- to high-tech assistive technology tools and strategies to support students with weak executive functions. Special attention will be paid to supports for planning and time management, organization of materials, and organization of information. There will be demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on experience with a variety of tools. You might even find news way to get yourself organized!
When: October 8, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Page Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PageEF1
I Can Read That!/The Write Stuff! – Presented by Margaret Egan
Many students struggle with academic tasks in the core areas of reading and writing. Assistive technology can help our students overcome barriers by increasing their access to the curriculum and help them be more successful and independent in the classroom. The selection of assistive technology to support students in the curriculum can sometimes be a daunting task for an IEP team. In this training participants will learn about a variety of tools and strategies to help support their students in the areas of reading and writing. Many of the tools are free or low cost and easily accessible in a variety of settings. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for questions. Information will be given on how to acquire these tools and where to go for support when needed.
When: October 9, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Page Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PageRW1
Assistive Technology FREE for All – Presented by Bruce Kennedy
Assistive Technology (AT) software and applications to support students in accessing the curriculum and engaging in activities of daily living can be costly, but there are many low cost and FREE options. This fast paced informational and demonstration session will highlight several FREE iOS, Android, Chrome, Windows and internet options that are available to support students in reading, writing, mATh, and ADL’s. Participants will be provided with a very extensive compendium of FREE AT resources. Attend this session so you will be FREE to make good AT choices with your students.
When: October 10, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Page Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/Pagefree1
Tools and Strategies for the Disorganized Student – Presented by Mitch Galbraith
Executive function skills enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and regulate our behavior- all skills that are essential in the classroom- and in life! Weak executive functions are associated with a wide range of disabilities, including ADHD, Autism SD, Bipolar Disorder, LD and TBI. Luckily, there are many tools and strategies to help our students compensate for deficits in executive function, regardless of disability.
In this training, we will explore low- to high-tech assistive technology tools and strategies to support students with weak executive functions. Special attention will be paid to supports for planning and time management, organization of materials, and organization of information. There will be demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on experience with a variety of tools. You might even find news way to get yourself organized!
When: November 6, 2019
Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: Payson Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PaysonEF
I Can Read That!/The Write Stuff! – Presented by Margaret Egan
Many students struggle with academic tasks in the core areas of reading and writing. Assistive technology can help our students overcome barriers by increasing their access to the curriculum and help them be more successful and independent in the classroom. The selection of assistive technology to support students in the curriculum can sometimes be a daunting task for an IEP team. In this training participants will learn about a variety of tools and strategies to help support their students in the areas of reading and writing. Many of the tools are free or low cost and easily accessible in a variety of settings. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for questions. Information will be given on how to acquire these tools and where to go for support when needed.
When: November 6, 2019
Time: 1:00 pm – 3:00 pm
Where: Payson Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PaysonRW
Assistive Technology FREE for All – Presented by Bruce Kennedy
Assistive Technology (AT) software and applications to support students in accessing the curriculum and engaging in activities of daily living can be costly, but there are many low cost and FREE options. This fast paced informational and demonstration session will highlight several FREE iOS, Android, Chrome, Windows and internet options that are available to support students in reading, writing, mATh, and ADL’s. Participants will be provided with a very extensive compendium of FREE AT resources. Attend this session so you will be FREE to make good AT choices with your students.
When: November 7, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Payson Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/Paysonfree1
Tools and Strategies for the Disorganized Student – Presented by Mitch Galbraith
Executive function skills enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and regulate our behavior- all skills that are essential in the classroom- and in life! Weak executive functions are associated with a wide range of disabilities, including ADHD, Autism SD, Bipolar Disorder, LD and TBI. Luckily, there are many tools and strategies to help our students compensate for deficits in executive function, regardless of disability.
In this training, we will explore low- to high-tech assistive technology tools and strategies to support students with weak executive functions. Special attention will be paid to supports for planning and time management, organization of materials, and organization of information. There will be demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on experience with a variety of tools. You might even find news way to get yourself organized!
When: February 11, 2019
Time: 9:00 am – 11:00 am
Where: Greathearts Academies
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PhoenixEF
I Can Read That!/The Write Stuff! – Presented by Margaret Egan
Many students struggle with academic tasks in the core areas of reading and writing. Assistive technology can help our students overcome barriers by increasing their access to the curriculum and help them be more successful and independent in the classroom. The selection of assistive technology to support students in the curriculum can sometimes be a daunting task for an IEP team. In this training participants will learn about a variety of tools and strategies to help support their students in the areas of reading and writing. Many of the tools are free or low cost and easily accessible in a variety of settings. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for questions. Information will be given on how to acquire these tools and where to go for support when needed.
When: February 12, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Littleton Elementary School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/PhoenixRW
Assistive Technology FREE for All – Presented by Bruce Kennedy
Assistive Technology (AT) software and applications to support students in accessing the curriculum and engaging in activities of daily living can be costly, but there are many low cost and FREE options. This fast paced informational and demonstration session will highlight several FREE iOS, Android, Chrome, Windows and internet options that are available to support students in reading, writing, mATh, and ADL’s. Participants will be provided with a very extensive compendium of FREE AT resources. Attend this session so you will be FREE to make good AT choices with your students.
When: February 13, 2019
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Higley Unified School District
Register Now:http://bit.ly/PhoenixFreeAT
Assistive Technology FREE for All – Presented by Bruce Kennedy
Assistive Technology (AT) software and applications to support students in accessing the curriculum and engaging in activities of daily living can be costly, but there are many low cost and FREE options. This fast paced informational and demonstration session will highlight several FREE iOS, Android, Chrome, Windows and internet options that are available to support students in reading, writing, mATh, and ADL’s. Participants will be provided with a very extensive compendium of FREE AT resources. Attend this session so you will be FREE to make good AT choices with your students.
When: March 24, 2020
Time: TBA
Where: TBA
Register Now: TBA
Tools and Strategies for the Disorganized Student – Presented by Mitch Galbraith
Executive function skills enable us to plan, focus attention, remember instructions, prioritize, manage multiple tasks, and regulate our behavior- all skills that are essential in the classroom- and in life! Weak executive functions are associated with a wide range of disabilities, including ADHD, Autism SD, Bipolar Disorder, LD and TBI. Luckily, there are many tools and strategies to help our students compensate for deficits in executive function, regardless of disability.
In this training, we will explore low- to high-tech assistive technology tools and strategies to support students with weak executive functions. Special attention will be paid to supports for planning and time management, organization of materials, and organization of information. There will be demonstrations and opportunities for hands-on experience with a variety of tools. You might even find news way to get yourself organized!
When: March 26, 2020
Time: 1:30 pm – 3:30 pm
Where: Sunnyside Unified School District
Register Now: http://bit.ly/TucsonEF
I Can Read That!/The Write Stuff! – Presented by Margaret Egan
Many students struggle with academic tasks in the core areas of reading and writing. Assistive technology can help our students overcome barriers by increasing their access to the curriculum and help them be more successful and independent in the classroom. The selection of assistive technology to support students in the curriculum can sometimes be a daunting task for an IEP team. In this training participants will learn about a variety of tools and strategies to help support their students in the areas of reading and writing. Many of the tools are free or low cost and easily accessible in a variety of settings. There will be demonstrations and plenty of opportunities for questions. Information will be given on how to acquire these tools and where to go for support when needed.
When: March 26, 2020
Time: TBA
Where: TBA
Register Now: TBA
Contact Us
Assistive Technology
Contact Information
For general questions, please email AT Inbox
Tucson & Southern Arizona
Vacant
Flagstaff & Northern Arizona
Bruce Kennedy, MPA
(928) 637-1876
Phoenix & Central Arizona
Mitch Galbraith, MS, OTR/L
(602) 542-4016
AT Administrative Assistant III
Elida Acosta
(602) 542-3852
If you would like to be notified of upcoming Assistive Technology training events, please add your e-mail address to our contact list.