What is an assistive technology evaluation?
Children with disabilities participate in an assistive technology evaluation to determine which technology tools and services will help them access the curriculum and succeed in school. Assistive technology evaluations, by definition, focus on tools and methods that will allow the student to access the curriculum. An assistive technology evaluation includes:
- A review of the student’s educational history as provided by parents, teachers, therapists, and school district personnel
- An individualized evaluation by an educator/assistive technology specialist.
- A written report with recommendations for assistive technology implementation. The report provides specific product and feature information in order to assist the school district, agency, or parent in implementing recommendations expeditiously.
Assistive technology evaluations may be recommended or requested by:
- Education administrators
- Child Study Team personnel
- PK-12 teachers
- Case managers
- Physical therapists, occupational therapists & speech-language pathologists
- Parents of students with disabilities
- Individuals with disabilities
Some sample outcomes for an assistive technology evaluation include identifying:
- tools and implementation strategies to support a student in achieving their IEP goals.
- specific technology features and tools to support a student’s needs.
- technology-based strategies to accommodate a student in all content areas.
- a reliable method of gaining access to technology tools and information for students with disabilities.
What information is needed to schedule an assistive technology evaluation?
An evaluation is an involved process that requires a review of a student’s background. To maximize the benefits of an evaluation, CATIES requests that those individuals who frequently interact with the student complete intake forms. These forms provide valuable information to assist the evaluator in making appropriate and useful recommendations. Any other documentation or information that can help provide the evaluator with information about the student and curriculum is welcome. These other documents often include a copy of the IEP, relevant sample copies of student work, evaluations or documentation from professionals working with the student and not listed below. After talking to a CATIES staff member, please download and complete the appropriate forms:
- Special Education Teacher Form*
- Parent/Guardian Information Form*
- General Education Teacher form
- Speech Language Pathologist Form
- Occupational Therapist Form
- Physical Therapist Form
* required
Where do evaluations take place?
Evaluations are primarily conducted at the student’s school. However, they could also be conducted at CATIES on the campus of The College of New Jersey in Ewing, NJ. Location will be determined on an individual basis.
For more information on scheduling an evaluation, contact a CATIES staff member at caties@tcnj.edu or 609-771-3016. We are happy to assist you with any questions or concerns before you begin the official request process.