Searchable video tutorials empowered staff to learn at their own pace. The result? Staff members began embracing Tier 1 tools. Our AT Department utilizes a ticket system. When staff members want to check out a readily available tool, collaborate, or request support, they complete a Google Form. Since implementing Tier 1 tools, our district has seen a 300% increase in AT support re- quests over the past 3 school years. This surge reflects not only growing awareness but also a significant shift in the district's culture toward embracing technology to support students. Teachers became our champions in the classroom. Instead of seeing AT as an 'extra' service, they began viewing it as an inte- gral part of the learning process. This shift was key to integrating the tools effectively, ensuring they became a natural part of stu- dents' routines. TIER 2: CUSTOMIZING FOR SPECIFIC NEEDS Not all students’ needs can be met by universal tools. Tier 2 interventions involve modifications to Tier 1 tools, such as ad- justing reading speeds in Read&Write or providing headsets for Windows Dictation. These small adaptations can sometimes significantly improve the tools' effectiveness for individual stu- dents. Let’s take a look at how some of the tools can be modified to provide the required features.
Our target was clear: to ensure all special education students had access to essential AT tools. Specifically, we focused on tools designed to support communication, reading, writing, and ex- ecutive functioning skills. The tiered approach provided a struc- tured way to deliver these supports efficiently and equitably. TIER 1: UNIVERSAL TOOLS FOR ALL In our model, tier 1 tools form the universal toolkit. These are readily available tools that are accessible to all students. They provide foundational support and often promote inclusivity and accessibility across the broader student population. CORE BOARDS : Found in preschool and self-contained special education classrooms, playgrounds, and cafeterias, these low-tech communication tools align closely with the high-tech AAC devices used by many students. GRID 3: Smartbox’s software provides customizable sym- bol-based communication supports, empowering teachers to seamlessly integrate communication tools into class- room routines. READ&WRITE (free version): Through Read&Write’s ex- tension, students have access to reliable, web-based text- to-speech. WINDOWS DICTATION: Built-in speech-to-text is available to any student with a 1:1 device, fostering independence and accessibility across general and special education set- tings.
Tool
Possible Modifications
An Example of the Story Interface
Core Boards
One way to reduce the visual com- plexity of the core boards is to print a copy in grayscale and then cut out the icons being targeted. By doing so, the targeted icons stand out without losing access to the remaining words Targeted vocabulary can also be highlighted by using wet-erase markers, Wikistix, and painter's tape. Within GRID 3, any page can be printed to create a visual. This al- lows the core boards to be quickly modified and printed for students. Students can choose the voice that is easiest for them to listen to. A voice that sounds more natural to them can make the text feel more engaging and enhance un- derstanding. The reading speed can be adjust- ed to support processing.
GOOGLE KEEP: A digital organizational system that sup- ports students’ executive functioning skills.
The introduction of Tier 1 tools caused a ripple effect. Assis- tive technology awareness increased, technology integration became a more natural part of learning environments, and class- room cultures were transformed. NAVIGATING CHALLENGES IN TIER 1 IMPLEMENTATION Our journey was not without obstacles. Initial attempts to disseminate information through required, lecture-style train- ing sessions were ineffective. It became clear that adult learners thrive on involvement, relevance, and immediate application. By incorporating adult learning principles, we were able to shift to designing more successful learning experiences: Virtual user groups allowed for self-directed, problem-cen- tered exploration of tools. Hands-on demonstrations and group discussions provid- ed immediate application opportunities and fostered collabora- tion.
GRID 3
Read&Write (free)
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