What does the term "assistive technology" refer to in IDEA?

The term "assistive technology" as defined under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) specifically encompasses any device or service that enhances the capabilities of students with disabilities. This includes a wide range of tools and technologies designed to support students in overcoming barriers to learning and participation in educational settings. The intent is to provide personalized support that enables these students to access the general curriculum and achieve their educational goals effectively.

The focus of assistive technology is on its specific role in addressing the individual needs of students with disabilities, such as communication devices, mobility aids, or software designed to assist with particular learning challenges. These tools are tailored to help improve functional capabilities and promote educational progress.

In contrast, the other options suggest a broader or different application of technology that does not specifically target the needs of students with disabilities. For instance, while academic performance tools for all students or general educational software may benefit various learners, they do not fall under the specialized category of assistive technology aimed explicitly at supporting students with disabilities.