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Assistive Technology (The Simon Technology Center)

The Simon Technology Center helps children and adults with disabilities and their families use assistive technology to improve their lives. The Simon Technology center believes that technology allows children and adults with disabilities to keep pace with a rapidly changing world by providing opportunities for communication, education, recreation, employment, and independence.

The Simon Technology Center offers information and resources on assistive technology through:

  • individualized technology consultations for children or adults with disabilities
  • workshops on assistive technology and related issues for parents and professionals
  • a statewide technology and software lending library
  • a computer laboratory that members of the community may use
  • a training model for early childhood professionals and parents of young children with disabilities, ages 3-8

AT Information and Referral Brochure
Information about receiving answers to your assistive technology questions through the Simon Technology Center. 2002.
FREE | STC-9

Computer Monitor newsletter
Simon Technology Center offers reviews of software, adaptive equipment, and ways of making computer technology more accessible to children and adults with disabilities. Published twice annually.
FREE | PHP-b4

Customized In-Service Training Brochure
Information about assistive technology in-services offered through the Simon Technology Center. 2000.
FREE | STC-2

Project KITE Brochure
Provides information about Project KITE (Kids Included through Technology are Enriched). This is an early childhood training program offered to parents and professionals. 2004.
FREE | STC-19

Simon Technology Center Brochure
Order a free brochure that provides information about the services offered through the center, including assistive technology library, community outreach, and consultations. 2005.
FREE | STC-3

Simon Technology Center Library Packet
Includes membership application form and library policies. The library offers access to over 2000 assistive technology options to Minnesota residents. $50 annual fee for parents, $100 for professionals. Mailing service is also available. Updated 2006.
FREE | STC-1

STC Consultation Request Form
Application form for free, informal assistive technology consultation for children or adults with a disability. A $50 refundable deposit is required prior to scheduling an appointment. Updated 2006.
FREE | STC-10

Booklets Free to Download pdf icon

EZ AT book
A guide for parents and professionals working with children ages 3-8 with disabilities. It provides assistive technology activities to encourage inclusion among all students. A wide range of devices and products promote best practices for home and classroom learning. 2006.
square $10 | 10+ copies, $8 each  | STC-16

image of Just Your Type publication Just Your Type
Gives an overview of keyboarding alternatives for typists using one hand and other people with disabilities who have difficulty using a standard keyboard. Updated 2005.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-12

Opening Doors to Communication
Learn more about communication tools for your child. The information covers low- to high-tech devices, strategies for selecting and implementing communication devices, and a grid of products. Updated 2007.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-8

Reaching All Students Inclusion/Multimedia
Learn more about using multimedia in special education for teaching, assessment, and access. Includes multimedia basics, strategies and tips, and a product list. 2005.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-15

Really Useful Technology for Students with Learning Disabilities
Highlights an extensive list of useful technology, such as writing software, portable devices, and reference tools for children with learning disabilities. Updated 2003.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-11

Speech Recognition
Learn about the latest developments in speech recognition technology and how they can help people with disabilities. This handout includes a cross comparison of speech recognition products and tips on how to make it work successfully. 2004.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-5

TOYS, Universal Tools for Learning
Learn how toys can affect the development of a child with a disability. This 12-page booklet outlines buying tips, categories of toys, and learning new skills through play. 2005.
square $3 | 10+ copies, $2.50 each  | STC-14

Handouts squareFree to Download pdf icon | $1.50 per request | 10+ copies, $.50 each

Assistive Technology for Infants and Toddlers (See Translations for Spanish, Hmong, and Somali.) ALL-7
Augmentative Device Helps Max Speak PHP-c75
Available Technology for People with Disabilities PHP-c129
Computers Can Help Young Children PHP-c70
Creating Accessible Web Sites PHP-c102
Learning to Communicate PHP-c69
School Accommodations and Modifications (See Translations for Spanish.) PHP-c49
Simple, Inexpensive Devices Can Assist in Communication (See Translations for Spanish.) PHP-c72
Smart Thinking: Portable Technology that Empowers People with Memory Loss PHP-c125
Switch Activities Promote Classroom Inclusion for Young Students. 2006. PHP-135
Techniques and Devices Can Help a Child Learn to Communicate PHP-c71
What is the Simon Technology Center? PHP-c130

Presentation Handouts pdf icon

Accessibility and Your Computer
Accessing Digital Learning Materials
Boardmaker Plus! Tutorial
Comparing Technology Tools for Reading and Writing
Visual Strategies: Food Board Comparison
Visual Strategies: Listening Comparison
Web Based Resources

Books

image of AT Planners publication AT Planners
Three separate booklets are designed to support teachers, families, and administrators as they work in collaboration with other IEP team members in planning and implementing assistive technology (AT) services. 2006.
$25 | ATP-10

Computer Resources for People with Disabilities
The new edition of this award-winning book shows how today’s technology is redefining human potential and what it means to have a disability. Fully revised 4th edition, by Alliance for Technology Access. 2005.
$31.95 (spiral bound) | ATP-1 | $24.95 (paperback)  | ATP-5

Videos

Assistive Technology: Making a Different World
A DVD with a three-minute overview of PACER Center’s Simon Technology Center showing how assistive technology can help children and adults with disabilities develop and use skills that lead to inclusion at school and in employment. 2006.
$5 | STC-13

image of Universally Designed Technology in Schools publication Universally Designed Technology in Schools
A five-minute video on CD format that explains universal design and how it benefits students of all abilities. Used to help teachers, administrators, and other professionals implement universal design in general classrooms. 2006.
$15 | Free Online  | STC-17

CD Resources and Information

Assistive Technology Resources
A collection of resources produced by the Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD). This CD covers assessment, evaluation, the IEP process, funding, universal design, inclusion, and more. 2007.
Free | No Code

Visit PACER's other sites: National Parent Center Network (ALLIANCE) | Kids Against Bullying | Project C3 | FAPE Project | Minnesota SEACs

Translated content: Hmoob/Hmong | Espaņol/Spanish | Soomaaliga/Somali

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