What are assistive technologies?

Assistive technologies refer to tools and devices specifically designed to support individuals with disabilities, enhancing their ability to learn and perform everyday tasks. These technologies provide necessary adaptations that help remove barriers to learning and participation in various activities, allowing students with disabilities to access educational content and engage more fully in the classroom environment.

Choosing assistive technologies aligns with the inclusive education philosophy, which emphasizes that all students, regardless of their abilities, should have equal access to learning opportunities. These tools can include a wide range of supports, such as software for communication, adaptive devices for mobility, or specialized equipment that accommodates different learning styles.

In contrast, other options either narrow the focus of assistive technologies to specific scenarios, such as assessments, or suggest uses that do not align directly with the goal of supporting learning for individuals with disabilities. For example, while devices that enhance physical education may be beneficial in specific contexts, they do not encompass the broader range of tools available for all areas of learning. Similarly, technologies that limit student interaction contradict the fundamental purpose of assistive technologies, which is to promote engagement and support collaboration and communication among all students.