There are also other requirements in the new IDEA related to assistive technology. The term 'assistive technology device' means 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 'assistive technology service' means any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. It is important that members of the IEP team recognize that technology is just one strategy in a multi-faceted approach in addressing the needs and strengths of students with disabilities.
Assistive technology is as much a process as well as it is a product.
A Guide for IEP Teams by A.C. Chambers, provides a basic outline of the process which should be used in considering the assistive technology needs of students with disabilities. Copies may be ordered from the Council of Administrators of Special Education, Inc., Council for Exceptional Children in Alberquerque, New Mexico. The need for AT should therefore be an integral part of a comprehensive assessment for students with disabilities in all areas related to their disabilities, as appropriate, for each student and must be considered by the IEP team, based upon the students assessed needs and strengths.