ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY SKILLS INVENTORY
INTRODUCTION
Every student is capable of amazing things if given the opportunity. To fully realize that
opportunity, some students may need support. Assistive Technology can allow students to
accomplish things that otherwise might be impossible. Determining the right assistive
technology, however, can be challenging. Fortunately, educators are fantastic problem-
solvers! The world of education is filled with knowledgeable individuals with different
expertise. When we combine that knowledge thoughtfully, we discover solutions.
Professional organizations for various service providers have identified skills, abilities, and
knowledge related to assistive technology that their members are expected to possess.
The Assistive Technology Skills Inventory was compiled based on this information. The
inventory’s primary intent is to assist administrators, as well as those involved in
coordinating assistive technology services, to identify and support professionals who can
contribute knowledge and skills related to the provision of assistive technology. While not
reflecting every skill that each professional brings to the discussion, it should serve as a
starting point.
A
DMINISTRATORS
This resource is intended to promote better understanding amongst administrators
regarding the scope of knowledge each profession contributes to the consideration of
student assistive technology need. It is critical that administrators support:
• The involvement of all necessary professionals from consideration through
i
mplementation
• Learning opportunities for professionals to maintain and enhance skills
I
NDIVIDUALS INVOLVED IN THE COORDINATION OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY
Assistive technology is too broad to expect any single individual to have all the answers.
The key to good coordination is to know who contributes what and to bring those
individuals together to make decisions. The Skills Inventory allows the individual
responsible for coordinating assistive technology to know:
• What skills and knowledge each profession contributes
• The skillset of specific professionals within the district
The Assistive Technology Skills Inventory reflects many perspectives that need to be
included in decisions. It is critical that students, as well as their families, are viewed as
partners throughout the process. Additionally, general education teachers are a vital
perspective that must be included.
S
ELF-ASSESSMENT
The Self-Assessment offers a means for professionals to rate their level of proficiency
with regard to the knowledge, skills, and abilities associated with their role. Results can be
used to identify who would be most beneficial to include in the assistive technology
consideration process. Administrators may also use the results to identify areas of need
for professional development.
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