About WVATSTeacher Tech Newsletter 2008
A publication of the West Virginia Assistive Technology System
Articles: [What is Assistive Technology] [Helping Hand from WVATS] [Assistive Technology Mini-Grants] [Try It Out] [WVATS Virtual Loan Library] [Web Spotlight: Cast-Universal Design for Learning]What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
Assistive technology (AT) is any device used to perform tasks that would otherwise be difficult or impossible. These devices can be as complex as computers with screen reading software or as simple as Velcro used in place of buttons or shoe laces.
- Assistive technology is not limited to students with disabilities; eye glasses and daily organizers are also AT devices in everyday use.
- Assistive technology falls into four categories: no-tech, low-tech, mid-tech and high-tech.
- No-tech solutions make use of procedures, services and existing conditions in the environment that do not involve the use of devices or equipment.
- Lo-tech items can include adapted spoon handles, non-tipping drinking cups and Velcro fasteners.
- Mid-tech devices are relatively complicated mechanical devices, such as wheelchairs.
- High-tech devices include sophisticated electronic devices and computers, computer peripherals and software.
A Helping Hand from WVATS
The West Virginia Assistive Technology System (WVATS), which is headquartered at the Center for Excellence in Disabilities (CED) at WVU, is dedicated to increasing awareness of and accessibility to assistive technology (AT) for West Virginians of all ages and all types of disabilities.
- WVATS provides AT recycling and exchange, loans, demonstrations and trainings to individuals and groups.
- WVATS Regional Resource Centers provide AT lending libraries, toll-free information hotlines and AT demonstrations.
CED AT Specialty Clinic
The Assistive Technology Clinic provides comprehensive assessments for individuals of all ages in the areas of computer access, environmental controls, recreation, adaptation to home environments and activities of daily living.
The assessment programs are overseen by a nationally certified Assistive Technology Practitioner and is under the direction of Laurie Gutmann, M.D. The clinic is designed to help individuals identify and use AT to increase independence and enhance their quality of life.
- The interdisciplinary clinical assessments are conducted at the CED and usually include environmental assessments in the home and school.
- Computer access assessments for hardware and software are included in comprehensive assessments, but may be scheduled separately.
- CED houses the only Microsoft Accessibility Resource Center in West Virginia and can offer accessible technology solutions on computers running Windows operating systems.
For more information or to schedule an assessment, call 800-841-8436.
Assistive Technology Mini-Grants
During the 2007-2008 school year, WVATS awarded six mini-grants to West Virginia public schools, educators and RESA staff to implement projects using assistive technology to improve outcomes for students with IEPs or 504 plans.
The mini-grants were awarded for new projects using assistive technology (AT) to: support inclusion in educational environments, improve social and/or other recreational outcomes and support students in transitions through school and into adult life.
Funded projects included proposals to:
Increase inclusion, high-level thinking, and instill workplace skills through the use of technology in an eighth grade language arts program. The proposed project was designed to involve approximately 125 students; 40% of whom were receiving special education services and integrated into the regular classroom. The students worked in pairs to complete an extensive language arts project using assistive technology with language arts software and Intel’s Thinking Tools® applications.
Teach pre-reading and various other skills through assistive technology in the form of soundtracks and headphones. This project provided a stimulating educational experience while minimizing distractions for students with sensory and auditory difficulties as well as those in regular education classrooms. The mobility of the proposed technology allowed the student(s) to complete their work in a special education setting or travel with the AT to the regular education classroom for increased inclusion opportunities.
Create a sensory integration room to increase the personal awareness and social participation of students experiencing difficulties with sensory perceptions. An individualized plan was developed for each student to use the facility to address their individual sensory needs.
Over 180 students, with and without disabilities, and sixteen educators received exposure to assistive technology due to the funds provided by WVATS for the assistive technology projects. WVATS will be continuing this effort in the 2008-09 school year.
New Funding Guide
The 8th edition of Pathways to Funding for Children and Youth is now available. Call 800-841-8436 for a copy or visit www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats.
Try It Out
The following items are available in the WVATS Virtual Loan Library.
Vanguard II is a full-sized dynamic display communication aid that features synthesized and digitized speech, computer emulation and infrared environmental controls. It is an excellent option for children beginning with augmentative and alternative communication devices. The large, full-color display can aid children/youth with visual or motor issues or children/youth using scanning as their access method. (This specific piece of equipment is a high-tech communication device that can only be loaned to professionals and must be picked up in Morgantown.)
The AlphaSmart device is an alternative to a laptop. It combines affordability with the benefits of a notebook computer. AlphaSmarts have a full-size keyboard and a screen. WVATS has two AlphaSmart models available for loan, the NEO and the Dana.
Designed specifically for writing, the NEO is a rugged, low-cost and lightweight writing notepad that provides quick and easy writing access from any location. Dana offers the convenience and affordability of a palm-powered, hand-held device and the ergonomic benefits of a lightweight notebook computer. Both models integrate effortlessly with Mac or PC via USB cable and can print directly to any compatible printer.
The design clearly demonstrates a strong understanding of the way screen-access programs for the blind work, knowledge of the shortcuts they use to facilitate efficient navigation of Web pages and a practical understanding of what blind people need and want in an e-mail system.
WVATS Virtual Loan Library
Trying out assistive technology before purchasing can help ensure money is well spent. The WVATS Virtual Loan Library is an online collection of assistive technology devices, books and other resources for people of all ages with disabilities, their families and service providers.
- The Virtual Loan Library allows users to see photographs, read detailed descriptions and borrow an assistive technology device or book from the comfort of their home or school. All photographs of assistive devices in the Loan Library are of the actual item for loan.
- The devices available through the Library can be borrowed for up to four weeks. Everyone can browse the contents of the library on the Internet. However, people must call WVATS to sign up as users (a free service) to borrow an item.
For more information, call WVATS at 800-841-8436 or visit www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats.
Web Spotlight: Cast-Universal Design for Learning
Web Spotlight: Cast-Universal Design for Learning
Visit Online: www.cast.org/products/index.htm
The Center for Applied Special Technology (CAST) develops innovative and technology-based education resources and strategies based on the principles of Universal Design for Learning (UDL). This approach to learning calls for multiple means of expression, representation and engagement; UDL provides a blueprint for creating flexible goals, methods, materials and assessments that accommodate each learner’s individual differences.
CAST’s web site offers a variety of information, products and resources including: Curriculum Self-Check, Lesson Builder and Book Builder. Lesson Builder provides educators with models and tools to create and adapt lessons that increase access and participation in the general education curriculum for all students.
Book Builder is used to create, read and share digital books that build reading skills for students. The universally designed books will engage and support diverse learners according to their individual needs, interests and skills. Products, professional development seminar dates, publications and other services are available online.
WVATS Core Office
WVATS Northern Resource Center
Center for Excellence in Disabilities
West Virginia University
959 Hartman Run Road
Morgantown, WV 26505
Voice & TDD: 304-293-4692
Hotline: 800-841-8436
WVATS Southern Resource Center
c/o WV Rehabilitation Center
P.O. Box 1004
Institute, WV 25112
Voice & TDD: 304-766-4946
Hotline: 800-SR-WVATS (779-8287)
www.cedwvu.org/programs/wvats
WVATS Newsletter Editor: Melina Danko (mdanko@hsc.wvu. edu)
Contributing Writer: Jessica Wright
Editorial Committee: Jeanne Grimm, Melina Danko, Todd Walters, Lori Risk
Layout: Brian Pickens
All printed materials produced by WVATS are available in braille, electronic format, cassette tape and large print.
The Assistive Technology State Plan is an interagency collaboration between the West Virginia Division of Rehabilitation Services (DRS) and the Center for Excellence in Disabilities (CED).
WVU is an Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunity Institution
