The U.S. Department of Education Releases Guidance on How Assistive Technology Relates to Special Education Law

As the use of technology in education continues to increase at a rapid rate, so too does the need to ensure that all students, including students with disabilities, can access that technology.  On January 22, 2024, the U.S. Department of Education released guidance on the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act’s (IDEA’s) requirements regarding assistive technology (AT) devices and how AT devices and services can be used for children with disabilities.  The U.S. Department of Education intended the guidance to be used by a “wide range of individuals” involved in a child’s education.  

The guidance also clarifies several “myths” about AT.  Did you know that “accessible technology” and “assistive technology” are not the same thing?  The term “accessible technology” describes technology that is designed to support many different users.  In contrast, the term “assistive technology” describes a piece of technology that is selected to perform a specific task for an individual student with a disability.  

Check out the U.S. Department of Education’s guidance to learn more! 

“As the pace of advancement, access, and use of education technology rapidly increases, there is a need to provide information about how to meet the requirements of” the special education law with respect to assistive technology, Wright-Gallo said.

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