Back to the AT Basics: The SETT Framework

What is the SETT Framework? 

The SETT Framework, developed by Joy Zabala, utilizes a systematic process to determine the appropriate technologies and tools for an individual with a disability.  As stated on Joy Zabala's webpage, "The framework is a four-part model intended to promote collaborative decision-making in all phases of assistive technology service design and delivery from consideration through implementation and evaluation of effectiveness."

SETT is an acronym for Student, Environments, Tasks and Tools. Although the letters form a memorable word, they are not intended to imply an order, other than that the student, environments, and tasks should be fully explored before tools are considered or selected. 


So why use the SETT framework? To answer, it simply ensures the individuals are receiving the tools that best meet their needs which can ultimately "level the playing field." 

The graphic from Understood.org posted below provides a visual explanation regarding the SETT Framework.

Additionally, visit the PrAACtical AAC website for their article "5 Things to Love About SETT Framework"! or see below for more direct links to information regarding the SETT Framework...

• SETT Scaffold for Consideration of AT Needs
• SETT Scaffold for Data Gathering
• SETT Scaffold for Implementation and Evaluation of Effectiveness Planning

Back to the AT Basics: A Review

While contemplating what articles or resources to feature this week, I felt it was important to take a step back to review the basics of what is assistive technology, the types/categories of technologies available, as well as some of the important steps to follow during the selection process. Whether you're new to the field of assistive technology or more seasoned, join me this week as we take a peek into each of these areas. Please feel free to comment below if you have any other information you feel should be included or would like to see more of. 

Looking for information to get started learning about assistive technology, visit some previous Where It's AT blog posts:

• Getting Started....What is Assistive Technology?
• Assistive Technology Checklist: What to Consider When Looking at AT
• Assistive Technology: What It Is and How It Works
• The QIAT Top 10
• Assistive Technology (AT) to Support Students with Special Needs
• 5 Low-Tech AT Options

Motivational Monday

Webinar Wednesday: Assistive Technology Supports for Reading Disabilities

Since the invention of the printing press in the 15th century, the printed word has been the most fundamental method for conveying information. But what if reading is hard for you or your students? The reasons may be numerous (learning disability, vision disability, English language learner, not yet learned to read), but the result is the same: text, and the information contained in it, is inaccessible. Join Karen Sheehan, Director at AT Coalition, on September 26, 2018 from 12:00-1:00 pm PDT for her webinar, Assistive Technology Supports for Reading Disabilities, to learn about the variety of tools available to help people track, decode, and comprehend the printed word.

This presentation will cover assistive technology products and strategies to assist struggling readers in Tracking, Decoding and Comprehending text. It is appropriate for those interested in learning more about AT for people with reading disabilities of any age.

Motivational Monday

CTD Answers Your Questions About AT!

Join the Center on Technology and Disability as they answer your questions about Assistive Technology (AT)! Send them your top three questions, and their team will host a live Q & A event on September 18, 2018 at 4pm EST to answer them.

Visit the CTD website to submit your questions and then RSVP using the button below...

Webinar Wednesday: AT: What Is It and How to Use It

If your summer had you on the go and you missed out on the webinars from CTD's summer series, you're now in luck. CTD, Center for Technology and Disabilities, has shared some of their summer webinars, including the webinar being featured below with Elizabeth Barry and Tina Hanson from the PACER's Simon Technology center. Elizabeth and Tina describe the fundamentals of AT, and how to incorporate them into your student's or child's life to enhance learning and creativity. The original post and full transcript can be found through this link. Watch the webinar below and click on the link for the PDF handout of their presentation.

Source: CTD