Assistive technology is any kind of technology that can be used to enhance the functional independence of a person with a disability. Accomplishing daily tasks such as talking with friends, going to school and work, or participating in recreational activities is often a challenge. Assistive Technology (AT) devices are tools to help to overcome those challenges and enable people living with disabilities to enhance their quality of life and lead more independent lives.
(from: Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD): Assistive Technology 101)

IDEA 2004 defines assistive technology and assistive technology services for children and youth with disabilities.  This information is found by using the search function at the Office of Special Education Programs (OSEP) website: Building the Legacy: IDEA 2004. 

The following resource material and dialogue starters will help to bridge the conversation gap around the use of assistive technology.  We thank the Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) for permission to highlight and link to their work.

To begin, review the Facilitator's Handbook, and then choose the topic and the appropriate dialogue guide starters for your audience
•    Dialogue Guide Facilitator Handbook

Assistive Technology 101
Source Document:
FCTD Fact Sheet: Assistive Technology 101, The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Assistive Technology 101


The Possibilities of Assistive Technology (AT)
Source Document:
Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology: Section 1: The Possibilities of Assistive Technology (AT), The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)

Dialogue Question Starter: The Possibilities of Assistive Technology (AT)


Assistive Technology in Schools
Source Document:
Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology, Section 2: Assistive Technology in Schools, The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Assistive Technology in Schools

Assistive Technology and the IEP
Source Document:
FCTD Fact Sheet:  Assistive Technology and the IEP, The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Assistive Technology and the IEP

Funding AT
Source Document:
Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology: Section 3: Funding AT , The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Funding AT

Assistive Technology Laws
Source Document:
FCTD Fact Sheet:  Assistive Technology Laws, The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Assistive Technology Laws

Quick Questions and Tips
Source Document:
Family Information Guide to Assistive Technology: Section 4: Quick Questions and Tips, The Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD), Academy for Educational Development (AED)
Dialogue Question Starter: Quick Questions and Tips