Blog Post #2 SETT Framework

What is SETT framework?

• The SETT framework refers to a model that encourages thoughtful decision making regarding assistive technology. SETT is an acronym that stands for Student, Environment, Tasks, and Tools. This acronym is used as a reminder for two things 1) the student is always the main focus when making decisions and 2) that the student, environment, and tasks should be the focus when choosing what tools to use in planning, instruction, and evaluation (Dell, 2017, p.16).

How can it be used to make decisions for students with disabilities at AT?

• The SETT Framework can be used to make decisions for students with disabilities in the classroom because it analyzes each factor in the student's environment and the functionality of the tool and task. 
• For example, a student has a physical disability such as Cerebral Palsy and has trouble with fine motor skills, when writing and drawing the teacher may provide a pencil grip for that student.  Another student who also has Cerebral Palsy however, may not benefit from a pencil grip due to severity of the disability. This student may use a recording device to speak rather than write because the student can not hold a pencil.

• Another example of using SETT Framework, is if a student has a speech impairment and needs a communication device however, can get easily off task. While a high tech device such as an iPad can enable the student to communicate, it can create an environment that is too distracting for the student. To create an environment that allows the student to stay on task, the teacher may consider a GoTalk which is a simpler medium tech communication device. 
• The image below represents all of the things that should be considered while deciding what AT to use.

 

 

Picture Link: http://joshuadonowat.weebly.com/uploads/6/0/6/9/60690735/8137162_orig.jpg

 
Resources for the SETT framework?

• Joy Zabala created the SETT framework. Her website is an excellent resource to use to learn more about the SETT framework as well as other related topics, such as Universal Design for Learning. She also provides downloadable documents that anyone interested has access to.

http://www.joyzabala.com/#2768

Dell, A.G., Newton, D.A., & Petroff, J.G. (2017) Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the

school experiences of students with disabilities (3rd Ed). Boston: Pearson. ISBN:9780134170411 

Blog Post #1 Assistive Technology

What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive Technology pertains to any device or service used to improve and/or support a student's ability to function in the classroom.

 

Picture Link: http://iris.peabody.vanderbilt.edu/wp-content/uploads/2013/06/at_umbrella_0drop.jpg

• More specifically: 
• An assistive technology device is defined by IDEA 2004 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 functional capabilities of a child with a disability” (Dell, 2017 p. 5). Pictured below are various examples of AT devices.

 

Picture Link: http://scatp.med.sc.edu/cdrom/assets/DSCN1420.JPG

• An assistive technology service is defined by IDEA 2004 as any service that directly assists a child with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device (Dell, 2017 p. 5). Pictured below is an example of an AT service in which an individual is training a student how to use a device.

 

Picture Link: http://www.rehab.alabama.gov/images/crs-pix/atservicesrgb.jpg?sfvrsn=0
 

What are some examples of low, medium, and high tech devices?
An example of a low tech device is loop scissors. These scissors are typically used by individuals who don't have strong motor skills or muscle tone. The scissors have self opening handles and do not require a lot of pressure to cut. They can be found on this link: http://www.therapro.com/Browse-Category/Adaptive-Scissors/Easi-Grip-Loop-Scissors.html.

An example of a medium tech device is a GoTalk. This is typically used by students who have sever physical or speech impairments. The teacher can choose which pictures go in the boxes and can record audio for each picture. More information is available on the following link: http://www.attainmentcompany.com/assistive-technology.

An example of a high tech device is the Eyegaze Edge. This device allows a student to use control the computer using his or her eyes. This benefits students who have physical disabilities, who can't use their hands to control the computer. More information on this device can be found on the following link http://www.eyegaze.com/eye-tracking-assistive-technology-device/.

 
What are some resources on AT?
For Teachers:

• TechMatrix is a database of over 400 resources for educational assistive technology. This site also includes plenty of articles so that teachers can stay up to date on what resources are out there for their classrooms and students.              http://techmatrix.org/
  

For Parents: 

• The following website, Common Sense Media, is a resource for parents to learn more and find tools for their child who has a disability. The site is easy to use and includes 6 subheadings based on the function of the assistive technology: communication, social interaction, organization, reading and writing, math, and motor skills.  https://www.commonsensemedia.org/guide/special-needs

Dell, A.G., Newton, D.A., & Petroff, J.G. (2017) Assistive technology in the classroom: Enhancing the

school experiences of students with disabilities (3rd Ed). Boston: Pearson. ISBN:9780134170411