Abstract
Every U.S. state and territory has an assistive technology (AT) program, but each provides AT services differently. We examined how states use federal funding to provide AT services and how some universities house state labs or design their own.
Primary Author and Speaker: Briana Myers
Additional Authors and Speakers: Karen Dishman
Beginning with the Technology-Related Assistance for Individuals with Disabilities Act (Tech Act) of 1988, the federal government authorized grants to all states to provide assistive technology (AT) devices and services via state programs (Research & Training Center on Independent Living [RTCIL], 2021). In the 1998 and 2004 amendments, the Tech Act required access to AT for individuals with disabilities through state AT programs. As part of this grant, states are required to use a minimum amount of the funding each year with at least 90% providing direct service and 5% for children transitioning from high school to support AT use (RTCIL, 2021). Although each state follows guidelines as part of the AT grant, there are many differences in how the states have chosen to distribute and use the funds. This presentation will provide a summary of our research study to examine services provided by state AT programs throughout the United States and US territories. This mapping review is a starting point to begin research on the available equipment and services that AT programs provide. For example, in Indiana, the state AT program, the Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA) project, consists of one central AT lab (INDATA, 2023). However, funding is provided for a second AT lab and services specifically for local educational agencies called PATINS, Promoting Achievement Through Technology and Instruction for all Students (PATINS, 2023). Many states have chosen unique implementation of the AT grant funds, but they all share the same goal of assisting individuals with disabilities. Attendees should expect to gain knowledge on the types of AT devices and services provided at state AT labs and university or private funded AT labs. This mapping review could lead to further studies on the effectiveness of the services provided by state AT programs to determine best practices.
Research & Training Center on Independent Living (RTCIL). (2021). The assistive technology act fact sheet. https://rtcil.ku.edu/sites/rtcil/files/documents/ATA%20Fact%20Sheet%202.15.2021--Fixed.pdf
Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA). (2023, June 7). INDATA project. https://www.eastersealstech.com/about/the-indiana-assistive-technology-indata-project/
Indiana Assistive Technology Act (INDATA). (2023, June 7). INDATA project. https://www.eastersealstech.com/about/the-indiana-assistive-technology-indata-project/