What is Assistive Technology?

Assistive technology (AT) is any device, technology, or equipment that is used to improve or maintain your functional capabilities. Examples of AT include screen magnifiers, power chairs, hearing aids and communication devices, headphones, touchscreens, and large display monitors.

AT services are services that help you use your AT. They can include evaluation for a device, help choosing a device, and training on your device.

What laws protect users of AT?

The Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), Rehabilitation Act, and Assistive Technology Act protect users of AT against discrimination.

Can I use AT in school?

Yes. Under IDEA, school districts must make AT available to students with disabilities. AT may be in the students’ Individualized Education Program (IEP). The school district must provide both AT devices and/or services listed in the IEP. Students may also receive AT under Section 504 if they are not eligible for education services under IDEA.

To learn more about your right to AT through your education program, see DRRI’s Fact Sheet “Assistive Technology in Education.”

Can I use AT for work?

Yes. The ADA requires employers to provide reasonable accommodations. A reasonable accommodation is any change to a job or work environment that helps you do that job. This includes changes to help you apply for a job. The change must be related to your disability. AT can be a reasonable accommodation.

To learn more about reasonable accommodations, see DRRI’s Fact Sheet “Reasonable Accommodations at Work.”

For more information about Assistive Technology and your rights, contact Disability Rights Rhode Island at info@drri.org or 401-831-3150.