Supports and Services: Assistive Technology

The Assistive Technology Program consist of a multi-disciplinary team of general and special education teachers (including deaf and hard of hearing and vision), speech language pathologists, occupational and physical therapists certificated by California State University. Northridge through the Assistive Technology Applications Certificate Program (ATACP) and ;'or the Rehabilitation Engineering and Assistive Technology Society of North America (RESNA)

WHAT IS ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY?

Assistive Technology is defined in the federal law for students with disabilities called the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA).

"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 the functional capabilities of a child with a disability.

"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.

Assistive Technology is provided to support the student's ability to have access to the general education curriculum in the least restrictive environment possible.

WHO PROVIDES ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY?

• Assistive Technology is provided through the student's school.
• Assistive Technology needs are determined:
  • by school-site personnel knowledgeable about motor, vision. hearing. processing and communication
  • in consultation with the Assistive Technology Program as needed
• Assistive Technology is incorporated into a student's IEP as a tool to reach curriculum goals.
• Assistive Technology equipment is drawn from school-site resources to the fullest extent possible. including no-low tech items as well as devices with electronic components.

WHAT RESOURCES ARE AVAILABLE?

Training Modules available to schools and programs in the following areas:

• LAUSD IEP Team Guidelines for AT
• Curriculum modules (AT for Reading, Writing and Math
• Program-specific modules (AAC, PECS. OT-PT')

Professional Development:

• Info Tech - Assistive Technology participates in this once a year - Information Technology Division sponsored conference by offering several presentations on AT and high tech
• District intern Program - Mild to Moderate Certificate: Technology in Special Education

Technology Lab:

• Training lab available for selective hardware and software
• Lab space available for appointment

CONTACT INFORMATION

Assitive Technology Program
Beaudry Building - 16th Floor
333 South Beaudry
Los Angeles, CA 90017
Phone: 213-241-8055 Fax: 213-24 1-8433