The State of Assistive Technology: Themes from an Outcomes Summit

Abstract

This article presents findings from a December, 2005, national assistive technology (AT) Outcomes Summit attended by AT experts representing vendors, higher education, government, and public schools. Discussions conducted centered around three questions: (a) What are the current challenges with the use of technology and AT in assessment of educational outcomes? (b) How do these challenges affect the assessment of writing, reading, math, and other content areas? and (c) What is needed to measure the impact of AT on educational progress? Four overriding themes emerging from these discussions were identified, including (a) assessment, (b) evidence-based research in AT effectiveness, (c) professional preparation, and (d) technology generalization. Specific issues within each of these broad themes are discussed and supported by comments from participants. Outcomes and benefits are presented in the context of ‘next steps’ for the AT discipline.