NY State APSE2013 Supported Employment Training Institute

Promoting Vocational Independence Through Assistive Technology

Presented byLisa Tebo, OTR/L, ATP

ADK Abilities

lisatebo@adkabilities.com

Today’s Learning Objectives

• Gain a general understanding of assistive technology (AT) and how it is selected

• Become familiar with areas that may be addressed through AT

• Review a variety of tools that are readily available to promote independence in the work place

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology ServicesAny service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the

selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

Assistive Technology DeviceAny item, piece of equipment or product system that is used to increase,

maintain, or improve functional capabilities of an individual with a disability

AT falls on a continuumLOW

TECH

HIGH

TECH

Areas addressed by AT

Communication

Reading, Writing & Math

Self-HelpSkills

Physical Access

Mobility &Positioning

Recreation

ExecutiveFunctioning

Who uses “Assistive Technology”?

How is AT selected?

PersonEnvironment

Tasks

Tools

Modified from the SETT Framework, Zabala 2002

Let’s Explore:Tools That Promote Efficiency,

Independence and Success

• Symbols, pictures and videos

• Audio recordings

• Communication aids– Low tech communication boards– Simple communication devices– Advanced AAC devices

Communication

• Modifications to environment, tools or objects– Built-up handles, velcro, Dycem

• Alternate computer access– Operating system accessibility features– Adaptive keyboards and mice, touchscreen– Speech recognition– Alternate access (i.e. switches)

Physical Access

• Adaptive equipment

• Checklists

• Social stories

• Timers & reminders

Self-HelpSkills

• Symbols, pictures, videos & audio• Specialized software

– Text-to-speech– Speech-to-text– Word Prediction

• Handheld spellers and scanners• Smartpens• Adaptive calculator (enlarged or talking)• Money identifier

Reading, Writing & Math

• Talking clocks/watches• Visual schedules• Digital calendars

– Google Calendar– Picture Planner

• Organizational apps– NotifyMe

• Online reminder service – Memo to Me

ExecutiveFunctioning Time Management

• Visual Supports

• Social stories, flipbooks, videos

• Pocket Mods

• Voice Cue Recorder

• Timers

• Watch Minder

• Sensory Breaks & Fidgets

ExecutiveFunctioning

Task Completion & Sustained Attention

ExecutiveFunctioning

Organization of Materials

• Color coding

• Adequate storage containers

• Duplicate sets

• Electronic storage

LOW VISION / BLINDNESS

• Enlarged computer monitors

• Operating system accessibility features

• Magnification software

• Screen readers

• Handheld scanners

• CCTV

Keys to Success

• Involve “key players” in decision making

• Provide explicit instruction on use of tools or strategies

• Model appropriate use

• Monitor and make changes as needed

Resources

• Rehab Research and Training Center - www.worksupport.com

• AbleData - www.abledata.com• Alliance for Technology Access –

www.ataccess.org• UNH Institute on Disability –

http://www.iod.unh.edu/PriorityAreas/assistivetechnology/resources/iPadApplicationsAccessoriesandModifications.aspx