Telephone 847-446-1251
Dr. Jeanne Beckman
Licensed
Clinical Psychologist
Access to Excellence:
Learning Evaluations and Technology Consultation
Proven
Strategies and Techniques to Help Individuals
Achieve Their
True Learning Potential
Answers to Your Questions
Q: What is assistive
technology?
A: Assistive technology (learning technology) is any software,
hardware, piece of equipment, system, regardless of whether it is
modified, customized, or "off the shelf," that is used to increase,
maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a person.
Eyeglasses are an everyday example of assistive technology for many
individuals, but for those with disabilities, assistive technology can
make the difference between continued dependence and achieving
independence.
Q: When should a student begin using assistive technology?
A: As soon as the person is identified as having a
disability. Technology is necessary in order to have appropriate
access to the regular curriculum and/or work environment. For
example, even preschoolers who are identified as having difficulties
with phonemic awareness or other pre-reading difficulties can benefit
from multisensory computerized text to speech programs like
Kurzweil3000 or using books on tape with traditional books.
Q: I’ve heard there is technology
where you can dictate to the computer instead of writing. Can
this help my child?
A: Yes, voice recognition technology has been found, with appropriately
accommodated training, to be effective for children with dyslexia
and/or writing difficulties as young as age nine.
Q: I already have a current
comprehensive evaluation. Can Dr. Beckman help me without
re-doing the evaluation?
A: Yes, Dr. Beckman can provide you with a technology evaluation
utilizing tools including your current comprehensive evaluation.
If you need a full independent evaluation, Dr. Beckman can provide both
your comprehensive evaluation and your technology evaluation.
Q: My school has said that
my child should learn how to read textbooks “the regular way.”
How can I convince them that my child needs technology to access the
regular curriculum right away as well as special reading help
(remediation)?
A: Dr. Beckman will help you determine what technology is appropriate
in order to access the regular curriculum and write specific measurable
recommendations and goals to insure progress. She will accompany
you to IEP meetings and rigorously advocate for both appropriate
remediation and accommodations (including technology) for your child.
Q: My child was recently
identified as having a learning disability (LD). I realize now that I
also have similar learning issues. Is there technology that will
help me be more productive at work?
A: Yes, Dr. Beckman can
provide both family members with assistive technology that is
individualized for each person’s needs.
Q: How to I learn more?
A: You may contact Dr. Beckman by telephone (847-446-1251) or by email (TechPsych@jeannebeckman.com).
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Revised 1/24/07
© All pages 2005-2007
Dr. Jeanne Beckman
P.O. Box 544
Winnetka, IL 60093
Telephone: 847-446-1251
Email: webmaster@jeannebeckman.com
www.techpsychologist.com