This journey to understanding Universal Design for Learning and Assistive Technology took began with early intervention, so it seems fitting that this final (required) blog ends with how to use assistive technology in life after school.
The advances in technology since the inception of IDEA have been exponential; while a picture schedule is and can be an effective form of communication, the addition of APPs and programs that are readily available on mobile devices demands recognition as a low cost (after initial investment in device) avenue for authoring a person specific set of icons and phrases.
I have a family member who has been battling cancer for the past 18 months. The battle has included 2 brain surgeries, and now several months after the last successful surgery she is beginning to suffer the side effects that the surgery causes as trama to the brain - her speech is impaired. I used my understanding of assistive technology to help. I downloaded an APP onto her Kindle, even when she was not able to verbalize the correct words, or put them in the correct context she had a tool to communicate her basic needs. The relief in the expression on her face was palpable; this will serve as a constant memory and reminder to me to find the tool that meets the persons needs, in their environment and based on the task.
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