Assistive Technology
The Wayne Assistive Technology Team (WATT) provides assistive technology devices and services to local districts and public school academies in Wayne County.
Professional Development
Information and Resources
- Assistive Technology Decision Making Tools
- Guidelines and Guidance Documents
- Assistive Technology Reference Website
- Assistive Technology Resources
- Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Resources
- Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
- Quick Guides/Training Modules on Assistive Technology Tools
- Accessibility Resources
Assistive Technology Decision Making Tools
Guidelines and Guidance Documents
Assistive Technology Reference Website
Assistive Technology Resources
Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) Resources
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
Quick Guides/Training Modules on Assistive Technology Tools
Accessibility Resources
Assistive Technology
For individuals with disabilities, Assistive Technology (AT) improves access to education, employment, independent living, recreation, and participation in the community. The importance of assistive technology is at the heart of the Assistive Technology Act of 2004.
The AT Act promotes awareness and access to assistive technology devices and services.
The Assistive Technology Act of 2004 defines "AT Device" and "AT Service" as follows:
AT Device
AT Device is any item, piece of equipment, or product system (whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized) that is used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities.
AT Service
Assistive technology service means any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device. The term includes -
- The evaluation of the needs of a child with a disability, including a functional evaluation of the child in the child's customary environment; An in district team will conduct the evaluation with support from WATT, if needed.
- Purchasing, leasing, or otherwise providing for the acquisition of assistive technology devices by children with disabilities;
- Selecting, designing, fitting, customizing, adapting, applying, maintaining, repairing, or replacing assistive technology devices;
- Coordinating and using other therapies, interventions, or services with assistive technology devices, such as those associated with existing education and rehabilitation plans and programs;
- Training or technical assistance for a child with a disability or, if appropriate, that child's family; and
- Training or technical assistance for professionals (including individuals providing education or rehabilitation services), employers, or other individuals who provide services to, employ, or are otherwise substantially involved in the major life functions of that child.
Considering a Student's Need for Assistive Technology
The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) of 2004 states that Assistive Technology must be considered annually for every student with a special need. The outcomes of the consideration process then become part of the student's Individualized Education Plan (IEP). The need for assistive technology may be indicated when a student is having difficulty achieving his or her IEP goals and objectives, struggling to participate in classroom activities, or not making progress in the general education curriculum.
Contacts
For general information, contact WATT
email: wattsupport@resa.net or phone: (734) 334-1701