NY State APSE 2013 Supported Employment Training Institute

Promoting Vocational Independence Through Assistive Technology

Presented by Lisa Tebo, OTR/L, ATP ADK Abilities [email protected]

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 Device

Any item, piece of equipment or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of an individual with a disability

Assistive Technology Services

Any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

AT falls on a continuum

LOW TECH HIGH TECH

Areas addressed by AT

Executive Functioning Self-Help Skills Communication Reading, Writing & Math Physical Access Recreation Mobility & Positioning

Who uses “Assistive Technology”?

Person How is AT selected?

Environment Tasks Tools Modified from the SETT Framework, Zabala 2002

Let’s Explore: Tools That Promote Efficiency, Independence and Success

Communication

• Symbols, pictures and videos • Audio recordings • Communication aids – Low tech communication boards – Simple communication devices – Advanced AAC devices

Physical Access

• 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)

Self-Help Skills

• Adaptive equipment • Checklists • Social stories • Timers & reminders

• Symbols, pictures, videos & audio • Specialized software – Text-to-speech – Speech-to-text – Word Prediction

Reading, Writing & Math

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

Executive Functioning

Time Management • Talking clocks/watches • Visual schedules • Digital calendars – Google Calendar – Picture Planner • Organizational apps – NotifyMe • Online reminder service – Memo to Me

Executive Functioning

Task Completion & Sustained Attention • Visual Supports • Social stories, flipbooks, videos • Pocket Mods • Voice Cue Recorder • Timers • Watch Minder • Sensory Breaks & Fidgets

Executive Functioning

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/assist ivetechnology/resources/iPadApplications AccessoriesandModifications.aspx