Scheduled at 3:00 pm in Colorado G-H on Wednesday, November 19.
#41226Speaker(s)
- Melanie Eddington, Occupational Therapist, Assistive Technology Service Provider, Colorado State University
Session Details
- Length of Session: 1-hr
- Format: Lecture
- Expertise Level: Beginner
- Type of session: General Conference
Summary
The Assistive Technology Resource Center at Colorado State University has developed a decision matrix to help AT service providers match assistive technology tools to specific academic tasks like reading, writing, and note taking. Integrated with the occupational therapy process, this tool streamlines technology selection and supports individualized, equitable access for students and employees with disabilities.
Abstract
At Colorado State University’s Assistive Technology Resource Center (ATRC), assistive technology (AT) service providers work collaboratively to assess and address the needs of students and employees with disabilities. To streamline the selection process of appropriate assistive technologies and ensure individualized support, the ATRC team has developed a comprehensive decision matrix tool. This matrix categorizes and aligns a wide range of assistive technologies with specific academic performance areas—including reading, writing, and note taking—based on the functional features of each tool.
Used in conjunction with the Human Activity Assistive Technology (HAAT) model and occupational therapy (OT) evaluation and intervention processes, the framework enables providers to make informed, client-centered recommendations. The matrix functions as a series of flowcharts, allowing practitioners to efficiently narrow down AT options that best match the unique needs, goals, and contexts of each individual. This presentation will showcase the structure and function of the framework, demonstrate its application through case studies, and discuss its role in promoting equitable access to educational and workplace tasks.
Keypoints
- Individuals with disabilities benefit from customized assistive technology selection
- Navigating the features of all AT options can be confusing and overwhelming
- Individuals in higher ed would benefit from a clear layout of AT features & options
Disability Areas
All Areas
Topic Areas
Assistive Technology, Uncategorized
Speaker Bio(s)
Melanie Eddington
Melanie Eddington is an occupational therapist and assistive technology service provider at Colorado State University's Assistive Technology Resource Center. She gets to work with CSU students and employees with disabilities to utilize assistive technology to support their access to school and work tasks. Before becoming an OT, Melanie worked in the non-profit world, focusing on education and sustainable agriculture.