Assistive technology (AT) in the classroom: an evaluation of two models of practice

Brennan, Rebekah; Ó Súilleabháin, Fiachra; Horgan, Aoife; McGovern, Sheila; Leane, Máire

Assistive technology (AT) in the classroom: an evaluation of two models of practice

Files

Box-4.-PDF-SOAR-Project-Assistive-Technology-AT-in-the-Classroom-Evaluation-Report.pdf(583.32 KB)

Published Version

Date

2025

Authors

Brennan, Rebekah

Ó Súilleabháin, Fiachra

Horgan, Aoife

McGovern, Sheila

Leane, Máire

Publisher

SOAR Project, Access UCC, University College Cork

Abstract

There is a significant range of assistive technology (AT) products and devices designed for inclusive educational settings, where students with diverse abilities can access technologies to support their learning. However, there is a lack of training for educators and challenges in the form of financial support and knowledge of the appropriate devices for students’ needs. AT programmes using Train the Trainer’ (TtT) models, and programmes using ‘student-centred training’ models of practice are under-researched. This evaluation aims to assess examples of each model of practice currently operational in the South Cluster – the TtT model of practice at IT Carlow and the ATTAINS programme at Waterford IT, which is largely post-primary student-focused. While the IT Carlow AT programme is relatively established, the ATTAINs programme was evaluated at its formative stage.

Keywords

Assistive technology , AT

Citation

Brennan, R., Ó Súilleabháin, F., Horgan, A., McGovern, S. and Leane, M.(2025) Assistive technology (AT) in the classroom: an evaluation of two models of practice. Cork: SOAR Project, Access UCC, University College Cork.