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Assistive Technology

Assistive Technology

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Contact Information

Director of Special Education
Service Area Supervisor

Our Mission Statement

It is the mission of Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District to provide leadership and services to local school districts.

It is the vision of Charlevoix-Emmet Intermediate School District to be an indispensable partner with every district we serve.

Communication Board instructions below

About Assistive Technology

Assistive technology needs must be considered as a part of all individualized education program (IEP) plans. The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) defines assistive technology devices as “any piece of equipment, or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of children with disabilities.” Assistive technology can be low/no, mid, or high technology and is identified by using a Student Environment Task Tool (SETT). This framework for discussion assists teams in their consideration of the student, the environments, and the tasks required for active participation in the activities of the environments.

The term “assistive technology” refers to an array of devices and services used to increase, maintain or improve functional capabilities of a student with a disability. Assistive technology may include equipment and/or instructional strategies needed to assist communication (spoken and written), mobility, self-care and other needs arising from sensory, motor, cognitive or social impairments. Assistive technology devices may range from simple modifications to sophisticated technical equipment. “Assistive Technology Services” involve evaluation, selection, acquisition, coordination and instruction necessary for a student’s successful participation in their learning environments. Assistive technology can eliminate barriers and enable individuals with disabilities to be participating and contributing members of society.

Parent and Educator Guide for Assistive Technology (Michigan Alliance for Families)

How to use a Communication Board

Char-Em ISD staff members work with students who are nonverbal with a number of tools and devices, including word and photo tablets and larger communication boards, such as one found at Pellston Elementary School. Additional signs are being installed throughout the ISD.

How to use Communication Boards:

1. Point to the Symbol/Word you want to communicate or teach.
2. Say the selected (modeled) word out loud. The communication partner will say the modeled word by asking something like, “So, you would like to slide?” Or, prompt for more direction. For example, if the individual points to play ask, “What would you like to play?” so they can point to an activity on the board or point in the direction of the activity in the playground or park area.
3. Return to the board to continue communicating. If you want to do more of a particular activity, you could point to more or again. You may want to end an activity by pointing to stop. You can also download and print out a hand-held version to use on-the-go from aaclanguagelab.com/resources.
4. Have fun!
For more information visit: aaclanguagelab.com
(examples of a communication board are pictured below)
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