Assistive Technology Assessments
What is an Assistive Technology Assessment?
An Assistive Technology (AT) Assessment evaluates how a student with a visual impairment uses or could benefit from technology to support communication, learning, access, independence, and participation. This includes a broad range of tools, from screen readers and braille displays to tactile communication systems and augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices.
AT Assessments are essential for both academic and functional access. For students with additional support needs (such as those who are non-verbal, non-mobile, or have limited cognitive functioning), assistive technology may include switch-activated tools, auditory scanning devices, tactile symbols, or eye gaze communication systems. For others, it might mean digital magnifiers, refreshable braille displays, screen-reading software, or electronic organizers.
No matter a student’s ability level, the goal of an AT Assessment is to determine the best tools to help them communicate, learn, and interact more independently in their environment. The process is highly individualized and considers the student’s vision, age, motor abilities, cognitive skills, and communication needs, both now and in the future.
Why Are Assistive Technology Assessments Important?
Assistive technology is a critical bridge to access for students who are blind or visually impaired, especially when combined with other disabilities. For many, it’s the only way they can meaningfully interact with others, access learning, or express preferences and needs.
An AT Assessment helps answer questions such as:
- What tools can help this student communicate more effectively, whether through voice output, braille, tactile symbols, or AAC systems?
- How can the student independently access reading materials, complete assignments, or participate in group activities?
- Can switch systems, head tracking, or eye gaze technology enable more independent interaction with their environment?
- Are there auditory, tactile, or visual access tools that can support this student’s unique learning profile?
- Does the student need help learning to use braille or screen access tools to participate in academics?
- What level of training or support will the student (and their team) need to use assistive technology successfully?
For students with complex needs, assistive technology is more than a support. It’s a foundational lifeline to engagement, expression, and quality of life. A well-matched AT system empowers students to participate more actively in school, at home, and in the community.
How Will Virtual TVI Perform Assistive Technology Assessments?
At Virtual TVI, we believe every student, regardless of their mobility, communication ability, or cognitive functioning, deserves tools that help them access their world. Our Assistive Technology Assessments are tailored to the whole student, taking into account their age, vision, strengths, challenges, and preferences.
We offer two service models to meet your team’s needs:
- In-Person Assessment: A certified Teacher of the Visually Impaired travels to the student’s school or home environment to conduct hands-on trials with a variety of technologies. This model allows for direct observation and real-time feedback in the student’s natural setting.
- Remote Assessment with Onsite Support: A Virtual TVI conducts the assessment through a secure video call, with assistance from an onsite team member. We provide detailed instructions and digital tools to guide the process and ensure accurate data collection.
Our Process
- Review of educational records, medical documentation, and previous evaluations
- Interviews with the student and their team, including parents, educators, and therapists
- Observation of the student using current technology (if any), or engaging in tasks requiring access support
- Structured trials with different tools matched to the student’s abilities and goals
- Evaluation of AAC, switch access, tactile symbols, or low vision tools as appropriate
- Recommendations for devices, software, settings, and training supports
- A comprehensive written report with prioritized, actionable guidance
Whether your student is using a braille notetaker to complete AP coursework or exploring switch-activated AAC to make choices in the classroom, we design our assessments to be meaningful, respectful, and developmentally appropriate.
Virtual TVI brings clarity and compassion to the assistive technology assessment process, ensuring every student has a voice, a way to access learning, and the tools they need to succeed.