Hello and welcome to our Blog.  Our names are Janine Weatherill and Darren Charlton and we have completed this blog as part of EPSE 410 Assistive Technology in Special Education.

Assistive Technology evolves at an impressive rate; a close inspection of this exciting area of education will show you that there are many devices available.  Indeed, combine this with the creativity and commitment shown by those involved in implementing assistive technology (AT) for students and it is inspiring to see what can be achieved.

A toddler with an iPad yesterday!

The development of tablets and smartphones has been placed at the forefront of recent AT development.   These attractive devices are sought after by kids (and adults!) and are seen as status symbols in the teenage jungle!  They are, however, having an influence on more than status, they are also being used to improve learning, communication, and the organizational skills of students with disabilities.  For example, nonverbal students with autism have for many years been known to sometimes use expensive AT to help aid their communication but now many are using apps to communicate.

The explosion of apps has provided alternative AT for students with disabilities, including autism.  Are they an effective replacement though? This blog focuses on the needs of autistic kids and wonders if apps for iPads are the ‘AT way forward’.  We hope you find the blog useful.  We believe there is an AT solution for most difficulties students face and are excited to find out if apps are an effective solution for kids with autism.

The Future