The use of assistive technology in special education has grown over the past four decades. In inclusive settings, assistive technology plays a vital role in providing access to academic content for students with disabilities. As the role of assistive technology in secondary classrooms expands, concerns regarding student autonomy, personal…

Input from parents of children with disabilities is highly valuable; however, barriers such as lack of time or travel can hinder the partnership between parents and stakeholders. Internet-based applications (e.g., Google Groups, Google Drive, and OneDrive) can alleviate some of the difficulties in collaborating. This article describes the use and…

Technological innovation is transforming the prevalence and functional impact of child disability, the scale of social disparities in child disability, and perhaps the essential meaning of disability in an increasingly technology-dominated world. In this article, Paul Wise investigates several specific facets of this transformation. He begins by…

As we mark the publication of the 35th issue of the British Journal of Special Education, Peter Mittler, Emeritus Professor of Special Needs Education at the University of Manchester, looks into the future and asks a series of challenging questions: What kind of a future do we want to see for a baby born with a significant disability today? What…

Discusses four factors related to the use of technology by teacher educators: motivation, when and where to use technology, how to use technology, and factors that affect the integration of technology. Examples of the use of technology in both teacher education and in public-school education are provided. (Author/CR)

This publication describes the Andrew Heiskell Library for the Blind and Physically Handicapped, a regional library for the National Library Service (NLS) example of the creative use of physical space and innovative technology. The publication focuses on the materials-handling system designed for the new facility, including system design…

Includes four articles that address issues related to the recruitment and employment of librarians and support staff with disabilities. Highlights include the Americans with Disabilities Act; flexibility in work schedules and procedures; mentors; appropriate technology; and meeting the needs of disabled patrons. (LRW)

This paper describes ergonomics and the need to adapt worksites and technologies for individuals with physical or sensory disabilities. It provides suggestions for how to design an appropriate setup, design considerations, environmental considerations, chairs, monitor height, ambient noise, light, and electricity. Recommendations include: (1)…

Describes the benefits of technology in special education and the use of electronic mail as an instructional strategy. Highlights the use of electronic mail by a student with Down syndrome to learn communication, reading, and written expression skills. Recommendations for using technology in the classroom are provided. (CR)

The delivery of technology-related assistance was selected as the topic for the Center for Special Education Technology's 1989 annual technology use meeting, in order to emphasize the broad context within which technology use occurs and to focus attention on the continuity of services needed to appropriately apply technology. The meeting sought to…

This technology information packet includes information about the technical aspects of access to technology, legal obligations concerning technology and individuals with disabilities, and a list of resources for further information and assistance. A question and answer section addresses: barriers to educational technology for students with…

Explores an integrated approach to technology, examines the transition of individuals with disabilities from historical and current perspectives, and provides an introduction and philosophical base for the articles which follow. Key provisions in federal legislation that affect transition and the technology applications are analyzed. (CR)

Describes a model framework to guide decision making about the use of technology to facilitate the development of competencies that people with disabilities need to make a successful transition from school to various adult environments. Legal mandates and types of technology are described. (Author/CR)

This paper provides school districts with information about determining the need for and providing assistive technology services and devices to children and youth with disabilities. Determinations about the needs of students are made on a case by case basis through the development of a student's Individualized Education Program (IEP). Once the IEP…

This handout addresses the definition of assistive technology, how to assess assistive technology needs, and practical and ethical issues surrounding assistive technology. A functional assessment is urged to consider the following issues: (1) the special needs of the student; (2) the student's current abilities; (3) materials and equipment…