USING INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AS
ASSISTIVE TECHOLOGY FOR CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Introduction - Definition and Terms

Assistive Technology
Anything used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with autism. Visually based

Low Technology
No electricity, low cost, easy to use. Dry-erase boards, clipboards, 3-ring binders, manila file folders, photo albums, laminated Picture Communication Symbol (PCS)/photographs, and highlight tape

Medium Technology
Simple electronic devices. Tape recorder, Language Master, timers, overhead projector, calculators, and simple voice output devices

High Technology
Complex electronic devices. video cameras, computers, and adaptive hardware, and complex voice output devices

Adapted from Susan Stokes under a contract with CESA 7 and funded by a discretionary grant from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.