What is an assistive technology device and assistive technology service?
IDEA defines assistive technology (AT) device as “any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified or customized, that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of children with disabilities.” Assistive technology (AT) services are defined as “any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition or use of an assistive technology device.” The term “assistive technology service” specifically includes a functional evaluation of the child in the child’s customary environment. Such functional evaluation frequently includes structured trials of one or more assistive technology tools in the student’s customary environment. These trials provide data to assist IEP teams in making decisions about AT devices needed for a free appropriate public education.
