Participation at school: assistive technology as fundamental to the educational program
Jennifer Kidd, Senior Clinician Speech Pathologist,
Peta Hardy, Senior Clinician Occupational Therapist,
Cheryl Jones, Occupational Therapist,
The Spastic Centre of NSW.
This paper discusses strategies for developing movement and communication skills using assistive technology within the educational setting. We propose that the development of mobility and communication be recognised as fundamental elements of the educational plan for students with physical, intellectual and sensory impairments. The paper examines the role of augmentative communication, mobility and computer access technology for children with physical and intellectual impairments in school settings. We will look at the implications for the child's learning in the preschool years and the parental acceptance of assistive technology. Discussion describes the interconnection between mobility and communication, and examines critical factors in the selection of children who may benefit from access to assistive technology. Case studies will be presented to illustrate these issues.
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