Schedule Your Testing Today
“Every child deserves a thorough, fair evaluation, wherever they live.”
Assistive Technology Evaluations:
Tools That Open Access to Learning
An Assistive Technology (AT) evaluation identifies tools that help a student access the curriculum and take part in school more independently. Cognitive Diagnostic Associates provides independent AT evaluations as part of an Independent Educational Evaluation.
What is an Assistive Technology Evaluation
Assistive technology is any device, equipment, or software that helps a student with a disability do something they otherwise could not, such as text-to-speech, speech-to-text, adapted keyboards, writing supports, and organization tools. The IDEA requires every IEP team to consider whether a student needs assistive technology. This evaluation looks at the student, the school environments, and the tasks the student is expected to do, and then at the tools that could help.
When to consider an independent AT Evaluation
Families often request an independent AT evaluation when a student struggles with reading, writing, or completing work despite other supports, when the school has not assessed assistive technology needs, or when they disagree with the school’s AT assessment.
What does an Assistive Technology Evaluation involve
Our evaluator reviews records, interviews parents and school staff, observes the student, and has the student try different tools on real school tasks. The written report describes how the student performed with and without each tool and includes recommendations for the IEP team to consider, such as specific tools, accommodations, and training for the student and staff.
What an AT Evaluation Gives the IEP Team
An AT evaluation gives the IEP team practical, tested information about what helps a student. It can:
1. Identify the school tasks where the student’s access is limited.
2. Compare the student’s performance with and without specific tools.
3. Match tools and features to the student’s needs and school environments.
4. Recommend assistive technology, accommodations, and training for the team to consider.