Quick answer: An assistive technology assessment is an evaluation of a student’s needs to decide which tools, if any, will help them access learning. Many school teams use the SETT framework, created by Joy Zabala: Student (strengths and needs), Environments (where learning happens), Tasks (what the student must do) and Tools (the system of devices, features, services and training). A good assistive technology assessment includes real tool trials with data, not just a list of recommendations.
In this guide
Choosing assistive technology by guessing wastes time and money. A student gets a tablet that sits in a drawer, or an app nobody knows how to use. An assistive technology assessment starts with the student and the tasks, and only then chooses tools.
When to Request an Assistive Technology Assessment
- The student works much harder than peers on reading, writing, math or communication.
- Current accommodations are not closing the gap.
- The student cannot communicate needs reliably.
- A physical disability limits access to materials or devices.
- The team disagrees about which tools to try.
An assistive technology evaluation is one of the AT services defined by IDEA (NJDOE).
Key point: Parents can request an assistive technology assessment in writing at any time.
The SETT Framework
Student, Environments, Tasks, Tools
The IRIS Center describes SETT as a collaborative process where tools are chosen only after the first three areas are understood (IRIS Center).
Assistive Technology Assessment Steps
From question to decision
Running a Tool Trial
| Measure | Without tool | With tool |
|---|---|---|
| Words written in 10 minutes | 18 | 62 |
| Reading comprehension | 55% | 85% |
| Assignments completed | 2 of 5 | 5 of 5 |
| Student rating (1 to 5) | 2 | 4 |
Sample data like this makes decisions clear. Collect a baseline first, then compare.
Parent request letter
“I am requesting an assistive technology assessment for my daughter, Mia, in the areas of reading and written expression. Please include tool trials with data and send me the consent form.”
Real-Life Example
Case story
Ari, 14, has cerebral palsy and slow, tiring handwriting. Using SETT, the team learned he wanted to write independently in history class, where long answers were required. They trialed speech-to-text, word prediction and an adapted keyboard. Word prediction with a keyboard doubled his output with less fatigue, and he preferred it to dictation in a noisy room. The IEP added it with staff training.
Tip: Ask the student what they think of each tool. Preference strongly predicts long-term use. Read more about assistive technology in the IEP.
Assistive Technology Assessment FAQ
What is an assistive technology assessment?
An evaluation of a student’s needs and tasks to decide which tools and services will help.
What is the SETT framework?
A process that looks at the Student, Environments, Tasks and then Tools.
Who does the assessment?
Often an AT specialist with the IEP team, therapists, teachers and the family.
How long should a tool trial last?
Usually several weeks, long enough to learn the tool and collect data.
Is the assessment free?
Yes, when done by the school as part of the special education process.
In short: An assistive technology assessment starts with the student and tasks, tests tools with data and ends with clear IEP decisions. This article is part of our Assistive Technology series.
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Sources
- IRIS Center. The SETT Framework and Evaluating Assistive Technology Remotely
- New Jersey Department of Education. Assistive Technology
- Council for Exceptional Children. SETT framework blog
This article is educational and does not replace professional advice.
