Assistive Technology (AT)  

An Assistive Technology DEVICE is any item, piece of equipment or system that is used to increase, maintain or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities. 

An AT device can either be low-tech (such as a yes/no choice board) or high-tech (such as a Lightwriter with voice output.)  Often, individuals with autism are given devices that are either too complicated to use, with overlays that have to be programmed in advance, or support staff and parents are not trained in how to support the individual using the device.  Some AT devices, such as communication books, only make certain choices available.  What if the individual wants to take ballet lessons, and the only choices in the communication book are food items?    

An Assistive Technology SERVICE is any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition or the use of an assistive technology device.  An AT Service should, most importantly, train staff and support personnel and how to support the individual using the device and provide follow-up coaching and support across environments.  An AT Service should strive to ensure that an individual wanting to take ballet lessons is able to communicate that desire!  

Augmentative and Alternative Communication

(AAC) 

For those with severe speech and language impairments, an Augmentative and Alternative Communication system refers to all the means and modes a person uses to communicate, including pointing, manual signing, finger spelling, eye gaze and facial expressions.  Assistive Technology, therefore, can play a vital role in an AAC system.   

The best of both worlds is Supported Typing - a communication strategy AND an assistive technology service that helps individuals use their AT devices to communicate effectively and efficiently.