Using Assistive Technology to Meet Diverse Learner Needs

Implementing new and advanced technology for instruction and access to the curriculum for the increasingly diverse student populations in schools can be a daunting task for even the most tech-savvy school personnel. This task can be even more challenging when devices, tools, and systems associated with assistive, or adaptive, technology are part of an individualized education program (IEP) for students with disabilities. School librarians should be knowledgeable about how assistive technology (AT) becomes part of a student's learning. Being a member of the team of classroom teachers, administrators, specialists, and parents who are striving to meet the needs of children who learn differently and require instructional accommodations or modifications to the curriculum using AT can be an essential role for school librarians.