Understanding Assistive Technology & Communication Accommodations

Assistive technology (AT) accommodations provide tools and devices that help students access the curriculum. AT ranges from low-tech (pencil grips, slant boards) to high-tech (speech-generating devices, specialized software). Under IDEA, the IEP team must consider whether your child needs AT.

Common AT accommodations include text-to-speech and speech-to-text software, communication boards or devices (AAC), screen readers, adapted keyboards, word prediction software, and audio recording devices for note-taking. The school is required to provide AT at no cost to you if the IEP team determines it is needed.

If you think your child would benefit from assistive technology, you can request an AT evaluation. The school must assess your child in all areas of suspected need. Once AT is included in the IEP, the school must also provide training for your child and their teachers on how to use it.