Pages - OTAPClassesontheweb

Join us for one of OTAP's interactive classes about assistive technology (AT). These classes are held in collaboration with Portland State University in Portland, Oregon and offer university credit.

Students wishing to enroll in the classes must have access to a computer with internet capabilities. The cost of materials is included in the cost of the class. Students who enroll in OTAP web classes will be given a screen name and a password which will allow them access to the class site and discussion groups. Weekly assignments take place on this interactive web site. Participants may sign in and enter discussions at any time.

Click on the class title to download a registration form in PDF format. Payment for these classes can be made by check, purchase order or credit card.

After the Assessment: Implementing Assistive Technology

September 29, - December 12, 2008 (Registration deadline: September 17, 2008)

After the IEP team completes an assistive technology assessment and chooses assistive technology tools for a child with disabilities, the work has only begun. Implementation planning, inclusion strategies and evaluation of the effectiveness of the assistive technology program are essential if AT is to become a useful tool for an assistive technology user. This course introduces concepts like re-SETT, aspects of AT competence, creating an environment for AT success and evaluation of effectiveness of the AT plan. This class offers two credits from Portland State University. All class materials are included in the cost of the class.

Models of Assistive Technology Assessment

January 5, 2009 to March 15, 2009-Winter Term 2009 Assistive Technology Assessment includes much more than simply knowing what devices exist. This class focuses on the process of assistive technology assessment and the role that each team member has to play in determining a child's need for assistive technology. Concepts discussed include Education Tech Points, framing the question, the SETT framework, and inclusion of AT in the IEP. This clss offers two credits from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. All class materials are included in the cost of the class. Pre-Register by December 15, 2008.
Registration form for class

An Administrative Perspective on Assistive Technology Programs

Class Schedule to be Announced for 08-09 Session
Administrators have many special skills and responsibilities that contribute to the success of individual student teams considering assistive technology (AT). Their contributions are also essential in determining the overall success of Assistive Technology efforts from an agency-wide perspective. Directors of special education programs, principals and supervisors may sometimes hesitate to take an active role in the development and provision of assistive technology services because of a lack of extensive knowledge about the technology itself. However, it is not knowledge of technology but vision and knowledge of program operation that the school administrator must contribute to an effective AT team.

Most administrators engage in three types of activities as a part of that supervision. They manage the programs they are responsible for. They supervise the staff employed in these programs. Finally, they lead program development efforts. All three of the administrative roles come into play in the development of effective assistive technology programs. This class offers two credits from Portland State University in Portland, Oregon. All class materials are included in the cost of the class.