An Alliance for Assistive Technology, Education and Community Health

Services: Evaluation

• AT Eval for Low Vision/Deaf & Hard of Hearing
• Northern New England AgrAbility Project
• ATECH Services

AT Eval for Low Vision/Deaf & Hard of Hearing

The NH Vision/Hearing Network provides low vision and assistive technology (AT) evaluations for students with vision and/or hearing impairments. These evaluations are designed to identify assistive technology devices and services that will assist the student to access the general curriculum and achieve academic success. NHVHN Assistive Technology evaluations are provided by highly qualified AT providers, low vision specialists, highly trained users of technology, teachers of the visually impaired and/or teachers of the deaf.

A NH Vision/Hearing Network AT Evaluation includes:

• A school visit and classroom observation to help determine what assistive technology devices or services would be most functional for the student. During the evaluation, an observation of the child in natural activities will be conducted. This observation provides information on strategies and equipment the child uses, as well as how the child performs in a larger group compared to the quiet setting during the hands-on component of the evaluation. Any AT equipment the student is currently using should be available during the evaluation.
• Interviews with team members to gather information regarding the ability and learning needs of the student. It is helpful to the evaluator, especially if this person is new to the student, to have team members available during the evaluation who are familiar to the student.
• A review of all pertinent medical and educational reports, including audiological evaluations, low vision evaluations, and learning media assessments, as appropriate.
• A hands-on component during which different equipment is tried with the student. The equipment used will vary based on the student's needs. No evaluator can bring all the AT equipment that is available, but there will be a variety of equipment which can provide information needed to determine what specifically might be appropriate for the student.
• A written report containing: information on what was observed; what equipment was used and the specific results; the student's responses and preferences to the equipment tried; suggestions for the team to consider; training needed by team members on the suggested equipment; how to obtain the equipment as well as what equipment is available for loan or rental.
• Evaluation for appropriate low vision aids can be included in any NHVHN/AT evaluation.
• Evaluations of a medical nature, i.e. ophthamology or audiology, are not included.

Because evaluations by an outside evaluator are often conducted during one session, longer trials of different equipment may be helpful before a purchase is made. The ATECH Services Technology Exporation Center and the NH Association for the Blind McGreal Sight Center has AT devices and software at their facility. Teams can go there to try out various pieces of equipment and software.

To arrange for an AT evaluation for a student with a vision or hearing impairment, educational teams must complete the request form (pdf) and return it to NHVHN. The names of at least two qualified AT evaluators will be provided to you, and you may choose one of these providers to perform the evaluation. All fees associated with this evaluation will be covered by the NHVHN. If follow-up services are needed to support the student or team to implement recommendations, these can be scheduled through the Network. Up to three visits per year per student will be provided at no cost to the school district.

ATECH Services

ATECH Services is a highly specialized clinical program that provides evaluation and consultation services in the area of assistive technology. Our most valued asset is our interdisciplinary team of occupational therapists, physical therapists, speech-language pathologists, special educators and rehabilitation technicians, all of whom possess advanced training in this field. This confluence of clinical expertise enables us to assess complex medical, physical, orthopedic, cognitive and communication needs and recommend assistive technology solutions. Services are provided at our centers in Laconia and Concord and, when appropriate, in the consumer's home or community.

Seating and Wheeled Mobility services address the configuration of wheelchairs and seating systems to meet the unique needs of the consumer. The program includes the availability of Force Sensing Array technology, a computerized system that maps pressure distribution on any weight-bearing surface. Our team model and individualized approach facilitate recommendations for a system (manual or power) that will promote health, function, and quality of life. Our long-term relationships with consumers provide opportunities to address issues related to growth and changes in medical, physical, or living conditions.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC) services focus on communication methods, strategies, and devices for those who are unable to effectively use speech to express themselves. Physical, cognitive and social concerns are addressed through communication devices, access solutions, and strategic plans for educational, vocational, and personal success. Program components include evaluation, trial, training, and follow-up services.

Computer Access services are designed for individuals who require assistive technology (hardware and software) to use a computer at home, school, or work. Recommended solutions facilitate physical access, written expression, organizational skills, and participation in educational and vocational activities. Suggestions are also intended to prevent injuries and maximize function through the use of appropriate positioning and ergonomic strategies.

Home Modification, Mobility, and Aids for Daily Living services promote accessibility, safety, function, and quality of life for people with disabilities. In addition to providing recommendations for ambulation aids, standers, bathroom equipment, handrails, lighting, personal care items, utensils, and environmental control units, clinicians also address issues related to room usage and physical access. Home modification solutions such as ramps, door widening, elevators, and lifts are reviewed, and if indicated, general recommendations related to remodeling are presented. Clinicians are available to consult with architects and contractors during the planning and construction phases of the project.

Worksite Modification services address how assistive technology can improve accessibility, communication, task completion, and productivity within the workplace. Injury prevention, back and labor saving solutions, and ergonomic strategies are also explored.

Modification and Fabrication services are available to enhance the appropriateness of an assistive technology device for an individual consumer. Our skilled team of clinicians and rehabilitation technologists apply their combined talents to create effective solutions, such as seating systems, communication equipment, switches, reading stands, pointing devices, jigs and fixtures, and splints. Our ability to creatively modify commercial products, and fabricate equipment not otherwise available, optimizes a person's ability to benefit from assistive technology solutions.