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Assistive Training Case Study

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Completing the School Profile of Assistive Technology Services was an eye opening experience. I anticipated above average scores in all categories but, upon finishing the scores and reflection, I realize we operate on more of a case-by-case basis instead of having a uniform plan for referral, evaluation and review across the district.
Referral - Average Score: 3.25
The referral process is above average, yet sporadic. Most staff members are aware of AT and receive some type of training, but the training is not uniform throughout the district. We are required to have training on AT but it can come from any source (e.g. College coursework, workshop, webinar, etc.). The lowest score came on parent input. According to the district technology …show more content…

We are operating with two major standard deficits. The first is ISTE Standard 5c. We currently do not “evaluate and reflect on current research and progressional practice on a regular basis to make effective use of existing and emerging digital tools and resources in support of student learning (ISTE Standards for Teachers, 2018). The staff completing evaluations simply ask if the AT is “working” and classroom teachers respond with yes or no. The process is too vague because a standardized process is not in place across the district. Part of this issue is due to the district’s lack of a specific technology plan. In a previous class, we were asked to read and evaluate the district technology plan as presented to the school board for review. Other districts have plan ranging in length from 30-50 pages. My district had three pages of important, yet vague vision …show more content…

Quality Indicator #5 states, the “education agency includes assistive technology in the technology planning and budgeting process” (QIAT, 2016). We have the budget for AT, time to meet about it, and a district level consultant available when needed. One issue is that our district AT support is usually pulled for basic technology support (e.g. chromebook repair, networking issues). The district technology support staff does an incredible job, but is understaffed to support the eleven buildings. Next year this will be an increased problem as the role of technology coach has been cut at each school further putting strain on their time.

Periodic Review - Average: 1
This section had the lowest average score showing a major deficit in Quality Indicator #7 (2016). “The education agency uses a systematic process to evaluate all components of the agency-wide assistive technology program.” As stated earlier, the district does not have a specific technology plan. While vision statements are nice, the school board and district administrators need to put a plan in place so that AT is equitable at all buildings.

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