Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) and assistive technology (AT) are always changing. We all need an ever-growing knowledge base and a toolbox filled with resources. New Discoveries is a series highlighting resources (some new/new to you, some you may have forgotten about) that might be of interest and use. We encourage you to explore and judge for yourself which to add to your toolbox.

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Resource to Explore: Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services (QIAT)

What is QIAT?

From the QIAT website: The QIAT Community is a nationwide grassroots group that includes hundreds of individuals who provide input into the ongoing process of identifying, disseminating, and implementing a set of widely-applicable Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services in school settings that can be used as a tool to support:

• school districts as they strive to develop and provide quality assistive technology services aligned to federal, state and local mandates

• assistive technology service providers as they evaluate and constantly improve their services

• consumers of assistive technology services as they seek adequate assistive technology services which meet their needs

• universities and professional developers as they conduct research and deliver programs that promote the development of the competencies needed to provide quality assistive technology services

• policy makers as they attempt to develop judicious and equitable policies related to assistive technology services.

The mission of QIAT is to guide the provision of quality assistive technology services to improve the educational achievement of students with disabilities. The purpose of the site is to provide access to the work of the QIAT Community in the form of the Quality Indicators for Assistive Technology Services and supporting documents. QIAT also offers forums for participation in the work of the Community and engagement in collegial conversations around the work.

The QIAT website supports the mission by making available to the QIAT Community a gateway to information including:

• Quality Indicators, Intent Statements, and Matrices

• Resources including QIAT in Action and the Resource Bank for sharing resources

• The QIAT List and searchable archives

• Announcements

Where can I learn more?

To learn more, visit the QIAT website HERE.