LRT Interview

An Interview with a DSBN LRT (learning resource teacher)

How can students receive Assistive Technology (AT) support?

- if a teacher finds that a student has the need they can provide computer options or taped responses at their discretion depending on the need and what is available
- if a student requires it as an essential tool, they must be on an IEP which indicates this as it will become part of their SEA claim application
- we fill out a SEA claim for what they would need (there is a variety of tools) and then if approved the funding goes towards that tool but it can only be used by the student it is assigned to or if another student is named on the app

Can anyone get Asstive Technology professional development? 

- if the board offers it, yes. I know our board had a few PD sessions this past year for a few different technologies or softwares
- for SEA claims, a resource from the board comes to train the staff involved and the student - I would imagine if another teacher wanted to sit in they could

What is the most sought after AT tool? 

- I'm guessing a personal computer/laptop for word processing, Word Q/Speak Q or Kurzweil. 

What tools do you need more of?

- Not sure on this but I've put below what I think might be helpful:

• software: Word Q/Speak Q (this would be great for us particularly as the new version can interpret French!!!)
• Kurzweil on all computers
• headphones
• personal laptops

What tools are being replaced with online (free) application):

- I would imagine some of the software is being replaced by increased use of Google Read and Write - I think they are working on coming out with a French version as well

Shifting gears ...

Assistive Technology (AT) is a vital component to helping students with exceptionalities achieve success.  This past year, I had a student in my class who used a laptop with a variety of tools to assist her in completing daily assignments, produce voice recordings, and conduct research for a final project.  Without the laptop, these would have been challenging tasks for both her and I to work through.  However, she gained a lot of confidence from having the computer, and her classmates were highly respectful of her laptop use.  On the other hand, it does make me wonder what may happen if a student does not receive the needed AT until a later grade.  Making fun?  Exclusion?  Bullying?  I am glad that this student will have access to her laptop throughout the years and her peers will find it completely normal that it sits on her desk for daily use.