The Role of Technology in Preparing Youth with Disabilities for Postsecondary Education and Employment
By Burgstahler, Sheryl; Journal of Special Education Technology, Vol. 18, No. 4, pp. 7-19Publication Date: Fall 2003
Article explores the role technology can play in helping students with disabilities make successful transitions to postsecondary studies, employment, and adult life. Throughout the article, the term “technology” refers to electronic and information technology and assistive technology (AT) that provides access to electronic and information technology. Assistive technology is defined as “any item, piece of equipment, or system, whether acquired commercially, modified, or customized, that is commonly used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of people with disabilities” by the Technology-Related Assistance Act of 1998. Examples of AT include scooters and wheelchairs, alternate automobiles controls, environmental controls, prostheses, communication aids, hand splints, hearing aids, and alternative input and output devices for computers. Theories regarding the application of AT are discussed in terms of roles in pre-college, postsecondary education, and employment. Legal issues are explored, and topics for further research are suggested.
Published by: Exceptional Innovations (Website:http://www.exinn.net)
Technology and Media Division (TAM) of the Council for Exceptional Children (CEC) (Web Site: http://www.tamcec.org )
This publication is included in the library of the National Rehabilitation Information Center (NARIC), accession number J47126
