Assistive Technology as an Accomodation in College

A few classes ago, we had a presentation about the transition of students from high school to college and what happens to the IEP.  Students with disabilities who complete 4 years of college have a higher employment rate than those who do not.  A students’ disability does not stay in high school; however, so the transition to college and the use of assistive technology to accommodate a student is permitted in college.  The IEP does not transition to college, rather students with disabilities are protected from discrimination.  Nevertheless, assistive technology can be used to help a student with writing issues by allowing him or her to use a computer or laptop.  The Lifescribe pen is another assistive technology (one that was also mentioned in our presentation) that could help students with learning disabilities and writing, visual, or hearing disabilities.  Colleges must provide reasonable accommodations to students.  

Here are a few assistive technology accommodations that colleges may provide to students with disabilities and how it links to their coursework:

Please keep in mind that “reasonable” in reasonable accommodation is not defined by law and is still being debated in the courts at the present time.

Dell, A; Newton, G and Petroff, J. (2012). Assistive Technology in the Classroom: Enhancing the School Experience of Students with Disabilities. Pearson Education.