Assistive Technology Resources
New AIM REsources for Families!
Basics for Families, The National Center on Accessible Instructional Materials (AIM) & PACER Center have published two new booklets for families explaining accessible instructional materials and how they may benefit students with disabilities. A “basics” booklet (also available in Spanish) and technical guide are available to download at no cost, and print copies are also available. Learn more at aim.cast.org/learn/aim4families.
Assistive Technology The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP)
The Illinois Assistive Technology Program (IATP) is a not-for-profit agency that promotes the availability of assistive technology services and programs for people with disabilities. IATP’s device loan program is FREE and easy to use. Devices are loaned to Illinois residents for 5 weeks and loan extensions are sometimes possible. (217) 522-7985 voice (217) 522-9966 tty Illinois Assistive Technology Program
The Assistive Technology Unit (ATU)
The Assistive Technology Unit (ATU) celebrated its 17th anniversary in December 2006. Today, the ATU offers a comprehensive array of services, including technology to maximize independence in activities of daily living , adaptive equipment, alternative & augmentative communication, and more. http://www.idhd.org/ATU.html
Able Data
Able Data is a free resource for objective information on assistive technology and rehabilitation equipment from both domestic and international sources. AbleData provides information on more than 38,000 products, 5000 manufacturers and distributors, 3,000 organizations, and 9,000 research abstracts. (800)227-0216 voice (301)301-608-8912 tty http://www.abledata.com/
Ability Hub Assistive Technology Solutions
Guide to adaptive equipment and alternative methods available for accessing computers. Ability Hub Assistive Technology Solutions
The Riot Issue Focused on the Digital Divide
The digital divide refers to the gap between people who have access to technology and people who don’t. Have you heard people say self-advocates do not need to use computers and the internet? If you don’t have access to technology, you are disconnected from valuable life skills and important information. http://www.theriotrocks.org/blog/wp-content/uploads/2011/04/Riot_Issue_April_2011_FINAL1.pdf
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology devices are tools that enable people living with disabilities to lead more independent lives. They can be low-tech, such as a magnifying glass, or high-tech, such as a computerized communication system. Here’s an overview of what’s available and how to choose the best AT tools for your child. http://www.ldonline.org/article/Assistive_Technology_101
Family Information Guide to Asisstive Technology & Transition Planning
This 50 page guide is aimed at providing families with the information they need to effectively prepare for and participate in periods of transition in their children’s lives. Individuals may order one free copy of the guide. Additional print copies are available for $10. A discount is available for bulk orders. To request one or more print copies go to http://www.fctd.info/show/order_guides
Plan Ahead To Get Assistive Technology In College
If your college-bound teen with LD relies on assistive technology, he can get a jump start on college success by scoping out universities’ AT policies and offerings – and understanding his rights and responsibilities. Get the scoop.
http://www.ncld.org/college-aamp-work/post-high-school-options/transitioning-to-college/getting-access-to-assistive-technology-in-college
Department of Education Issues Guidance on Rights of Students to Enjoy the Benefits of Technology
The U.S. Department of Education’s Office for Civil Rights (OCR) issued guidance through Dear Colleague Letters to elementary and secondary schools and institutions of higher education along with a Frequently Asked Questions document on the legal obligation to provide students with disabilities an equal opportunity to enjoy the benefits of technology. This guidance provides information to schools about their responsibilities under Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act. For more information go to http://www2.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/letters/colleague-201105-ese.html
Apps For Special Education
“iPhone, iPad and iPod touch Apps for (Special) Education” gives the app’s name, a description of what the app can do, and a link to the app. http://www.scribd.com/doc/24470331/iPhone-iPad-and-iPod-touch-Apps-for-Special-Education
Bureau of Engraving and Printing Launches Eyenote app
The Bureau of Engraving and Printing (BEP) has developed a free downloadable application (app) to assist the blind and visually impaired denominate US currency. The app is called EyeNote.
EyeNote is a mobile device app designed for Apple iPhone (3G, 3Gs, 4), and the 4th Generation iPod Touch and iPad2 platforms, and is available through the Apple iTunes App Store. More information is available at http://www.eyenote.gov/
Study Reveals Family Caregivers Want Web-Based and Mobile Technologies to Help Caring for Loved Ones
A new study, released by the National Alliance for Caregiving and UnitedHealthcare, found that more than two-thirds of family caregivers who have used some form of technology to help them with caregiving believe Web-based and mobile technologies designed to facilitate caregiving would benefit them. The report, e-Connected Family Caregiver: Bringing Caregiving into the 21st Century, shows that technological advances can lighten the growing financial and emotional burdens many caregivers face. For more information go to http://www.caregiving.org/
The Family Center on Technology and Disability
The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) is a national center that offers free information resources on the subject of assistive technology. FCTD provides a wide range of resources on assistive and instructional technologies, from introductory fact sheets through CEU’s for practitioners and educators. http://www.fctd.info
Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation
Illinois Elks Children’s Care Corporation’s mission is to assist any child under the age of 21 who is a legal resident of the State of Illinois with medical assistance, as long as it falls within the IECCC scope and guidelines, regardless of race, creed, sex, or national origin. (Some restrictions apply, e.g. transplants, catastrophic illiness, etc. For clarification, contact the office of the IECCC.) Call Toll Free: 800-272-0074 http://www.illinois-elks.org/ccc/
Variety the Children’s Charity
Variety the Children’s Charity is dedicated to promoting and protecting the health and wellbeing of children. Through a network of 54 chapters in 14 countries, Variety reaches into communities across the globe to offer financial assistance and services to children and organizations that serve children with disabilities. Through hard work, thoughtful stewardship and single-minded focus on the needs of the young, Variety strives to make a lasting difference in the lives of children, their families, our communities and the world…one need at a time. Phone: (312) 822-0660 http://varietyofillinois.org/about.html
Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation
Through the life services of Advocacy, Education and Assimilation, Muscular Dystrophy Family Foundation will enhance and strengthen the lives of individuals with neuromuscular diseases and to provide, or direct their families to valuable resources in helping our clients become successful contributors to the community. MDFF exists to provide resources, services, and adaptive equipment to enable patients with muscular dystrophy and their family members to live independent and productive lives. (800) 544-1213 http://noboundariesff.org/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=77
