VIDBE-Q Volume 68 Issue 2
68
Conclusion
Research indicates that students' success using AT is largely related to the
comfort level their teacher has with the technology (Judge & Simms, 2009). What
is more, Lee and Vega (2017) found that training in AT impacted teachers'
perceptions of its importance. Thus, the goal should be to increase the awareness of
and confidence in using AT. Additionally, instruction is needed regarding proper
AT assessment and implementation as part of the IEP. The creation of an AT Lab
in a postsecondary education program is one way that this can be accomplished.
However, it is important to also consider ways in which this goal can be achieved
without access to a lab; education related to the importance of AT must be
provided on a wider scale. There also needs to be a dissemination of information
regarding ways in which users who do not have access to expensive devices can
identify AT solutions. In sum, as AT becomes more valued and seamless, it is
more likely that it will be incorporated and sustained.
