Tools to Support AEM

Assistive Technology

Most students who use AEM will also need specialized tools to help them interact with the accessible learning materials. These tools are called assistive technologies (AT). Some examples of assistive technologies include software to read text out loud, refreshable braille devices, screen enlarging tools, audio players, braille writers, etc. Here you can find information on loan programs, funding, repair services and commercial products for common tools used to support AEM.

Brailler Repair Service

Discover how braillers may be repaired by APH or by AT and AEM Center volunteers. Volunteers provide the labor for repairs and the AT and AEM Center pays for parts if funds are available.

AT Loans

An important step of the AT assessment process is hands­-on trials with potential AT solutions. The following are statewide lending libraries that offer a wide variety of AT equipment that can be borrowed for hands­-on trials prior to purchase. The OCALI Lending Library also provides loans of AT assessment tools for the purpose of helping teams determine the appropriate tools to support their students specific needs.

Lending Library AT Assessment Tools

Borrow AT assessment tools for short term loan. Assessment tools are available to Ohio school districts.

Lending Library AT Devices

Explore AT features with an AT device loan from the Lending Library. Short term loans are available for AT device evaluations.

AT Ohio

Learn about AT Ohio, an agency that loans equipment for up to 30 days to users across the lifespan. Items include daily living aids, environmental control, AT for recreation, and more.

Funding and Acquisition

Need help funding or acquiring AT to support AEM? The following resources can help provide information.

AT Funding: Who Will Pay?

View an interactive PowerPoint show that presents student scenarios and potential options for funding AT.

APH: An Overview of Federal Quota

For students who meet eligibility requirements, the Federal Quota provides hundreds of textbooks in a variety of media formats as well as educational tools.

AT Funding

Information on funding options for AT including school districts, private agencies, public assistance programs, and not-for-profit organization.

Computer Refurbishing Program

AT Ohio maintains a computer refurbishing program that provides donate computers to individuals with disabilities for a nominal fee.

Funding Assistive Technology

Learn about funding for the purchase of AT devices including basic information about the laws authorizing the various funding options as well as private funding sources.