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Understanding Assistive Technology: Simply Said

The definition of Assistive Technology presented by the PACER Simon Technology Center www.pacer.org/stc

PACER Center

13 years ago

We all like to do things like color, and read, and use a computer. It's how we play, learn, work, and get things done. But when a disability makes it hard to do something we'd like to do, we need a little help. Luckily, there is a solution. Welcome to Simply Said: Understanding Assistive Technology. Assistive technology - or - AT is anything that helps you do something you couldn't do otherwise, like walk, run, communicate, and more. These helpful tools can be as simple as a foam grip that makes
it possible for a child to grasp a crayon and create art! As common as glasses that make It possible for a student to read and learn! Or as sophisticated as software that makes it possible for an employee to convert their spoken word to text on a computer screen and succeed. Whether you're young or old, male or female, whether you've had a disability from birth or developed one over the years, AT can help. Finding AT is easier than you might think. Every state has an Assistive Technology Act pr
ogram to help you find AT. In Minnesota, it's called the STAR Program. You can find it at starprogram(dot)state(dot)mn(dot)us. To find a program like STAR in another state, check out the Association of Assistive Technology Act Programs at A-T-A-P-O-R-G dot O-R-G. There are also many AT centers-including PACER's Simon Technology Center. That you can find it at PACER dot org slash S-T-C. The STC's consultants help you explore the numerous technology options available. Its lending library lets you
try different kinds of AT to discover what works best for you. So, now you know a little about AT. It helps you do something that you couldn't do without it. And it's available in every state. This has been Simply Said: Understanding Assistive Technology. Video style inspired by common craft dot com Produced by the PACER Center Directed by Bridget Gilormini Artwork and Narration by Jonathan Campbell This project was funded through the Minnesota STAR Program.

Comments

@debbydoodler33

Yes! I love this. Assistive technology is like engineering controls (from an occupational health and safety standpoint) and like ergonomics (fitting the tools and environment to the person to make work possible). Let's empower each other!

@franny56

Thanks for a very clear explanation of a complex topic!

@ezzellk

Wonderful explanation of AT! Thank you for sharing.

@assistivetechnologygfs9008

great job and super concise!

@sumnergreg

Love it! Thanks for putting it so simply.

@adonis_outside2062

Great Explanation of AT...

@jackieharris2166

the information help me under stand a lot

@LaurieCawthorn

very much appreciated!

@jackieharris2166

Thank you for the video learn some new things

@karenlatimer1

Great job!

@PACERCenter

All the artwork was created by one of our staff using an iPad.

@satpalmangal2933

Plz give english line down so it can be undetstood thankyou

@HannahIvysMom

I love the clipart! Can you tell me where you get it from? I'd love to use it in my classroom. Thanks a lot! Awesome video! :)

@becpotter8096

Yes! Except for 'whether you're male or female'. Let's get away from the gender binary when we're talking about supports!