Choosing Assistive Technology to Support Student Learning

When choosing AT tools, it is important to follow procedure:

1. Identify the student's needs ( reading,writing, etc.)
2. Create learning goals that can be measured.
3. Decide which Assistive Technology tools will help the student meet the learning goals, but the outcome of the use of the tool can be measured.
4. Start with low-tech, then mid-tech, then high-tech.
5. Define a specific amount of time to gather data while the student is using the AT tool.
6. Analyze data and decide whether the student is making progress toward the learning goal or not.
7. Adjust AT tool use accordingly.
8. Review data at pre-arranged intervals and adjust as necessary.

A useful tool for this procedure is the SETT. The SETT lays out the logical process of considering student needs first, then environment, tasks, and finally tools. Many school districts utilize this framework.

A useful website to find out more about SETT: http://atto.buffalo.edu/registered/ATBasics/Foundation/Assessment/sett.php