A Report released on Education Technology by the National Education Association (NEA) and the American Federation of Teachers (AFT), called Access, Adequacy, and Equity in Education Technology--examines the state of educational technology resources and support in public schools across the country, as reported by classroom teachers and instructional assistants” read more at http://www.eschoolnews.com/news/top-news/?i=54091;_hbguid=f99984a6-9c03-4824-8e3a-1fcb0386c0ce It was highlighted in an issue of eSchool News. According to the article: “After more than decade of investment in school technology, educators say they still don't feel adequately prepared to integrate instructional software into their classrooms and aren't getting the technical support they need to fully impact student achievement, according to a joint study by the nation's two largest teacher unions.
Assistive Technology Loan Programs
The Carroll Center's Assistive Technology Loan Program is available to schools on a trial basis to determine the usefulness for a student who is blind or visually impaired. Call 800-852-3131, or go to http://www.carroll.org/technology/technology.php
Massachusetts Assistive Technology Loan Program: www.massatloan.org. This program offers access to reduce-interest loans for assistive technology and related services. For more information call Jason Luciano: 508-751-643 or Kristina Koles:508-751-6428
The Assistive Technology Exchange in Massachusetts www.getATstuff.org is a site which facilitates simple, easy transactions between Mass. residents who need assistive technology devices and those who have these devices and no longer need. No Vendors, unless donating equipment or posting equipment for loans.
The MassMATCH AT Act Program, www.massmatch.org, offers information about the availability and funding for AT devices and services.
Easter Seals has a New Assistive Technology Demonstration and Loan Regional Center, based in Boston, near South Station. For more information call 800-244-2756 x 634 or DLRC@eastersealsma.org
The Adaptech Research Network of Dawson College, Montreal, has compiled a listing of free and low-cost (under $200) adaptive technology software go to http://www.adaptech.org
The Perkins Braille & Talking Book Library has a CCTV Loan Program for home use for registered Library borrowers. Students have priority in this program. Units must be picked up and some orientation to the unit is provided by Library staff. Contact Kim Charlson at 617-972-7249 or Kim.charlson@perkins.org
Buy, Sell And Trade Assistive Technology on ATBay http://atbay.faast.org, a website where people can buy, sell and trade assistive technology.
Reuse Assistive Technology Program: Office of Special Education and Rehabilitative Services U.S. DOE: http://www.ed.gov/programs/atsg/at-reuse.html
