Appendix A, Assistive Technology

Revision 23-1, Effective Nov. 13, 2023

A.1 Assistive Technology for People who are Blind or Visually Impaired

Revision 23-1, Effective Nov. 13, 2023

Evaluating Assistive Technology

Qualifications

Assistive technology evaluators must:

  • have earned a degree from an accredited college or university with a specialization in computer science, education, rehabilitation, or a related field, with one year of work experience in the education or rehabilitation of people who have visual or other disabilities; or 
    • have earned a high school diploma or passed a General Educational Development (GED) test, with four years of progressively responsible work experience in the education or rehabilitation of people who have visual or other disabilities; and
  • be knowledgeable about computers and assistive technology, the applications of technology, and the methods of evaluating technology for people who are blind or visually impaired;
  • possess the ability to simulate computer and technological environments, similar to the situations that a person may encounter on the job or in school;
  • able to conduct objective evaluations; and
  • able to make objective recommendations.

Staff-to-Person Ratio

Assistive technology evaluations must be conducted one-on-one, with one evaluator assigned for each person.

Service Delivery

Assistive technology evaluations determine the most effective assistive technology for meeting the person’s independent living goals.

Assistive technology evaluations give people who are blind access to:

  • the services of a knowledgeable assistive technology evaluator; and
  • the latest assistive equipment.

Minimum Assessment Requirements

To meet the minimum requirements, the person must have:

  • a typing speed of at least 30 words per minute (WPM), if the independent living goal is related to the purchase of computer software such as ZoomText, Window-Eyes or JAWS; and
  • a braille reading speed of 50 WPM in Grade 2 (uncontracted braille) using braille devices, when braille is the preferred reading format, if the independent living goal is related to the purchase of a braille display or braille note taker.

These minimum assessment requirements are evaluated on a case-by-case basis. For example, these requirements may be waived for people with secondary disabilities that limit the use of one or both hands and for people who have sustained a traumatic brain injury. The evaluator should discuss these circumstances with the person’s service provider as appropriate.

Evaluation Period for Assistive Technology

The length of time required to complete an assistive technology evaluation is based on the person’s circumstances. Therefore, there are no set time requirement for each evaluation. It is recommended that the evaluator plan for about 2.5 hours.

Conducting the Evaluation

The evaluator must:

  • remain impartial and objective throughout the evaluation process;
  • not express personal opinions, make other comments, or take other actions that may be mistaken for bias or promoting one product over another during the evaluation;
  • show the person only the products that will assist them in meeting their independent living goals;
  • conduct the evaluation, including the evaluator's interview with the person, in a confidential manner; and
  • not grant any other person permission to observe the evaluation, unless:
    • the person expressly agrees to allow the other person to be present; and
    • the observer agrees not to ask questions, make suggestions, or otherwise comment during the evaluation process.

Evaluation Components

Assistive technology evaluations include the following three components:

  • A private interview is held with the person to discuss their background and to review information developed by the service provider.
  • The person’s ability (or potential ability) to use assistive technology equipment and to benefit from the service provider's recommendations is assessed and observed.
  • A closing interview is held to summarize the results of the evaluation process and is documented in the evaluation report.

Interview Process–Evaluation of Video Magnification Systems

The evaluator asks the following questions during evaluation interviews for video magnification systems including closed circuit televisions or CCTVs:

  • Is color identification critical to the person’s independent living goal?
  • What specific tasks will the person be completing with a video magnification system. For example, reading-only, or reading and writing?
  • Is the person able to read in an efficient manner using magnification of a video system? What level of magnification is required to read using the video magnification system?
  • Does the person use a computer at home?

Interview Process–Evaluation of Scanners

During evaluation interviews for scanners, the evaluator should determine:

  • if the person has significant eye fatigue;
  • if the person has video magnification that is too large to be productive;
  • if the person feels nauseous when using the video magnification system;
  • what the nature of the person’s degenerative eye condition is;
  • if the person is fully aware of other resources, such as:
    • the Texas State Library; and
    • reader services such as oral reading or related services for people who are blind; and
  • what the person’s computer needs are for using braille or speech-related features and any tasks that they will perform using a scanner, including:
    • entering scanned documents into a computer (Has the person brought samples of documents to be scanned or can he or she describe the documents?); and
    • manipulating scanned documents on a computer.

Interview Process–Evaluation of Computer Applications

The following areas are addressed during evaluation interviews for screen magnification devices, refreshable braille display devices, and screen reader systems:

  • If the person is using a computer to meet his or her independent living goals, the evaluator notes:
    • the kind of computer the person is using;
    • the software the person is using; and
    • the access equipment the person is using.
  • The evaluator discusses as many aspects of the person’s independent living goal as possible, takes notes, and rechecks the person’s file for discrepancies. If possible, the evaluator uses information documented in the file to elicit additional details about the person’s independent living tasks.
  • The evaluator documents the person’s skill level, including:
    • typing speed;
    • accuracy; and
    • keyboard familiarity.
  • The evaluator notes the person’s previous computer experience, including:
    • the type of computer used;
    • the type of software used;
    • where and when the person got the experience; and
    • whether the experience was acquired before the loss of vision.
  • The evaluator asks whether the person has experience with:
    • computer access equipment;
    • video magnification systems, including CCTVs;
    • computer braille devices;
    • refreshable braille display devices; or
    • synthesized speech devices.

Post-Evaluation Discussion

When the interview and product evaluations have been completed, the assistive technology evaluator:

  1. discusses with the person the evaluator's equipment recommendations and the consequences of the recommendations; and
  2. answers any questions the person has about the recommendations and the evaluation process.

The service provider also reminds the person that:

  • the purpose of the evaluation is to help the evaluator make recommendations; and
  • the only decision the person’s evaluator can make is whether to purchase or not purchase assistive technology equipment.

Documenting the Assessment

Documentation of the assessment should contain the following:

  • Information about any specific evaluation requirements for the type of assistive technology evaluated.
  • Minimum assessment requirements addressed, such as typing speed or braille reading speed, or the reason for waiving the requirement.
  • A list of the products that were evaluated with the person.
  • Any previous experience the person has with assistive technology.
  • The final recommendation and an explanation how the assistive technology will help the person in meeting his or her independent living goals.

Providing Training on Assistive Technology

Training is provided to prepare a person to use assistive technology effectively to meet their independent living goals. Training may be provided at a facility, on-site at a person’s home, or in a community resource center. Facility-based trainers or on-site trainers can provide group training.

Qualifications

Assistive technology trainers must:

  • have a high school diploma or GED;
  • be knowledgeable about computers and assistive technology that is designed for people who are blind or visually impaired;
  • be familiar with computer and assistive technology applications for people who have visual disabilities or other disabilities;
  • be familiar with appropriate instructional methods for people who have visual disabilities or other disabilities and participate in required training as developed including confidence builder training or its equivalent;
  • able to vary training to meet the specific needs of each person; and
  • demonstrate proficiency in assistive technology training on specific assistive equipment, per HHSC standards and any periodic proficiency tests required by HHSC.

Staff-to-Person Ratio

For conducting group training on assistive technology, the staff-to-person ratio may not exceed one staff member to three people (1:3).

Scope of Services

Assistive technology trainers provide the following services:

  1. Baseline assessment
  2. Training that includes:
    • basic computer hardware and software, including keyboarding for approved facilities only, introduction to computers, introduction to application software, use of the Internet, and printing and faxing using computers that are equipped with assistive software and designed for users who have low-vision or are blind;
    • advanced computer software, including advanced skills training in computer hardware and software applications; and
    • assistive technology, including training in specific assistive technology products
  3. Post-training assessment

Baseline Assessment

The assistive technology trainer administers a basic skills test to each person who is referred for assistive technology training. Use the baseline assessment to determine the level of training required for each person.

A.2 Assistive Technology for People with Significant Disabilities

Revision 23-1, Effective Nov. 13, 2023

Assistive technology refers to mechanical aids that substitute for or enhance physical or mental functions that are impaired. Assistive technology can be any item—whether homemade, purchased off the shelf, modified, or commercially available that is used to help a person perform a task of daily living. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act, as amended, defines assistive technology device. See 34 CFR, Section 300.5, Assistive technology device.

Using assistive technology can increase a person’s level of independence by:

  • improving the quality of life;
  • increasing productivity;
  • expanding educational options;
  • increasing opportunities for success;
  • reducing the need for support services; and
  • increasing participation in activities.

Assistive technology helps persons with disabilities become independent. It improves self-esteem and quality of life.

Assistive Technology Services

Assistive technology services help a person with a disability select, acquire, or use an assistive technology device.

The services can include:

  • assessing the person’s need for assistive technology;
  • training the person to use the assistive technology;
  • training the family or supervisor to use the assistive technology for reinforcement and backup; and
  • fitting, adapting, maintaining, and repairing the assistive technology, as needed.

Examples of Assistive Technology

Assistive technology includes low, mid, and high-tech devices or equipment.

Low-tech Assistive Technology

Low-tech assistive technology refers to devices or equipment that does not require much training, that is relatively inexpensive, and that does not have complex or mechanical features.

Examples

Handheld magnifiers, large print text, canes or walkers, color coding, automatic lights, and specialized pen or pencil grips.

Mid-tech Assistive Technology

Mid-tech assistive technology refers to devices or equipment that may have complex features, may be electronic or battery-operated, or may require training to use. Mid-tech devices and equipment are also more expensive than the low-tech devices and equipment.

Examples

Talking spell-checkers, manual wheelchairs, electronic organizers, closed-caption televisions, amplifiers, text pagers, larger computer monitors, books on tape, remote controls for the user’s environment, and an alternate mouse or keyboard for a computer.

High-tech Assistive Technology

High-tech assistive technology refers to the most complex devices or equipment. High-tech items have digital or electronic components, may be computerized, will likely require training and effort to learn to use, and cost more than low- and mid-tech items.

Examples

Power wheelchairs or scooters, prosthetic devices, digital hearing aids, computers with specialized software such as voice recognition or magnification software, electronic aids to daily living, voice-activated telephones, and communication devices with voices.

Assistive Technology Can Reduce Barriers

Using assistive technology reduces barriers and increases independence. It allows a person with disabilities to perform essential functions. Many people know what type of assistive technology device is needed to accomplish a task. If a person does not know, talking with them and trying available low-tech items may help figure out what will work best. Other times, get a formal assistive technology evaluation to assess the person’s circumstances and abilities and to determine what assistive technology device or equipment is needed. Finally, talking with someone who has been through a similar experience may help you figure out which assistive technology device to use.

One Size Does Not Fit All

People with the same disability do not always have the same functionality. An assistive technology that works for one person may not work for another. It is best to work with rehabilitation professional to get an assessment before buying a high-tech item. Many low or mid-tech items can be purchased off-the-shelf from a vendor of durable medical equipment.

Resources for Obtaining Information on Assistive Technology

To get advice before purchasing assistive technology, contact an unbiased resource, such as the Assistive and Instructional Technology Lab at the University of Texas Austin. Many vendors can offer professional advice, as well. However, use caution and consider whether a less-expensive product will meet a person’s needs.