Services at TechACCESS of RI include assistive technology evaluations for children and adults, assistive technology consultations, technical support, individual or group training and customized workshops.
Free demos and workshops are also available at our center, for more information about those visit the Programs section of our website.
Making Assistive Technology Decisions
Choosing the right technology to meet an individual’s needs requires clinical expertise, understanding of the individual’s functional capabilities, and access to a variety of technologies. An assistive technology evaluation must be tailored to the unique needs of the student.
A good Assistive Technology Evaluation should:
- Be conducted in the educational/vocational environment, if possible
- Be performed by an individual who has expertise in assistive technology/augmentative communication
- Allow the individual an opportunity to trial an array of devices, both low and high tech
- Provide the IEP team with written recommendations
EVALUATIONS AT TECHACCESS
What is an evaluation?
There is no formal or specific “test” for evaluating the need for assistive technology. Evaluations for assistive technology should involve educators and therapists who are knowledgeable about the school curriculum and the student being assessed. An assistive technology evaluation should provide a written report that includes recommendations for accommodations, modifications, devices, and services based on the individual’s strengths, needs, and the functional tasks they need to perform.
EVALUATIONS for students
Does my child need an evaluation? Does he/she qualify?
Any child with an IEP or 504 Plan is eligible for assistive technology services. Your child’s need for AT should be considered every year as part of the IEP/504 Plan process. Students in Early Intervention and using Rehabilitation Services may also be eligible. If your child is enrolled by you in private school, he/she may still be eligible for services. He or she will have a “service plan” as opposed to an IEP, which can include AT.
How do I request an evaluation?
You can make a request for an assistive technology evaluation at any time to the Special Education Administrator in your district. It is best to make the request in writing. The Special Education Administrator may call for the IEP team to meet to review your request.
Who pays for the evaluation?
The cost for an AT evaluation is typically covered by the school department that writes your child’s IEP/504 Plan. School departments have the option to use your child’s Medicaid funds to be partially reimbursed for the cost of an evaluation and any recommended equipment. If they choose to do so, they must obtain your permission. If Medicaid funds are used, the equipment belongs to your child, not the school district.
OTHER SERVICES AT TECHACCESS
In addition to Evaluations, TechACCESS of RI also provides Consultation, Technical Support, Individual/Group Training and Customized Workshops.
STAFF QUALIFICATIONS
To view our staffs’ qualifications, visit The TechACCESS Team page.
STUDENT REFERRAL FORM
Download the referral form here in PDF
This form must be accompanied by an Authorization from the district Special Education Administrator and copies of current records
