1.2 B Pre-Reading Flashcards
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
AT is any item, equipment, or product system used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
What are the three main categories of Assistive Technology?
Low-tech: Simple, inexpensive tools (e.g., pencil grips, adapted paper).
Mid-tech: Moderately complex devices (e.g., audiobooks, specialized calculators).
High-tech: Advanced, expensive devices (e.g., eye-gaze systems, speech-to-text software).
What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)?
A framework that ensures learning accessibility for all students, incorporating assistive technology.
How does Assistive Technology contribute to inclusive education?
It provides support for communication, learning, mobility, and access to resources, helping students with disabilities integrate into mainstream classrooms.
What are some examples of Low-Tech Assistive Technology?
Pencil grips
Adapted paper
Visual schedules
Graphic organizers
What are examples of Mid-Tech Assistive Technology?
Audiobooks
Speech amplifiers
Reading pens
Visual timers
What are examples of High-Tech Assistive Technology?
Eye-gaze systems
Speech-to-text software
Word prediction software
Alternative input devices (switches, head pointers)
What factors should be considered when selecting AT?
Cost and budget
Training required
Environment of use
Personalization and adaptability
User preferences and attitudes
What is the SETT framework in AT selection?
A framework considering:
Student needs
Environment where AT will be used
Tasks the AT supports
Tools that meet those needs
Why should low-tech AT always be considered first?
Low-tech solutions are more accessible, cost-effective, and easier to implement than high-tech alternatives.
How does AT support students with learning disabilities?
It helps bypass challenges in reading, writing, and communication using tools like text-to-speech and grammar support.
What role does AT play for students with motor disabilities?
AT provides mobility support (e.g., powered wheelchairs) and access tools (e.g., eye-gaze or speech-controlled computers).
How does AT enhance communication for students with disabilities?
Devices like augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) systems allow non-verbal students to communicate effectively.
What are some emerging trends in Assistive Technology?
Artificial Intelligence (AI)
Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI)
Virtual & Augmented Reality (VR & AR)
Smart classrooms
How can AT support students with concentration or memory issues?
Interactive whiteboards
Digital reminders
Audio recorders
Visual timers
What is Inclusive Education?
A teaching approach ensuring all students, regardless of ability, learn together in mainstream classrooms.
What was the Salamanca Statement (1994)?
A UNESCO declaration advocating that all children should learn together in inclusive schools.
What are some challenges in implementing AT in classrooms?
High costs
Lack of teacher training
Limited funding and resources
Resistance to adoption
How can teachers integrate AT into their teaching strategies?
Using speech-to-text for writing assignments
Providing audiobooks for reading
Allowing voice assistants for research
Utilizing visual schedules for organization
How is AI changing Assistive Technology?
AI enables personalized learning, predictive text, and adaptive tools for students with disabilities.
What is the role of Brain-Computer Interfaces (BCI) in AT?
BCI technology allows users to control devices using brain signals, improving accessibility for those with severe motor disabilities.
How does Virtual Reality (VR) assist students with disabilities?
VR provides immersive experiences for learning, social skills training, and cognitive development.
What is the impact of the WHO’s GATE initiative on AT?
It promotes global cooperation to improve access to AT, especially in low-resource countries.
Why is teacher training important for effective AT use?
Without proper training, AT may be underutilized or abandoned, reducing its effectiveness in the classroom.
