Chairpersons who address this area are Deanna Miller (specializing in issues dealing with work-output) and Patsy Steeley (specializing in the area of augmentative communication). Assistive technology is defined as devices and services. Assistive technology device means 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 the functional capabilities of children with disabilities. Assistive technology services means any service that directly assists technology devices.
The process for initiating this service usually begins with a teacher consultation request followed by a staffing to determine specific needs, abilities and opportunities for use of augmentative and/or assistive technology. A trial use of a device will be arranged. If the trail is successful then the IEP will need to be changed to reflect the use of Assistive Technology.