Assistive technology sought for Louth student with dyslexia
New model for getting assistive technology to students who would benefit from it will be in place in September
A new model for getting assistive technology to students who would benefit from it will be in place in September, it has been revealed to Louth Sinn Féin TD Ruairí Ó Murchú.
The Sinn Féin spokesperson for disabilities asked Minister Michael Moynihan about whether a new model of deciding who gets assistive technology is under consideration and he raised the case of a ten-year-old Louth student with dyslexia.
Deputy Ó Murchú said: “Following assessment, it was found this boy would benefit from a computer and assistive technology but who is not eligible for the grant. I have discussed this with the Minister. We need to find a solution and to look at the overall criteria.
In response, Minister Moynihan said the review of the assistive technology scheme is at its final stages and will culminate in a new circular which is expected in September.
The Minister said: “A key outcome is a planned move from a diagnosis-based model to a needs-based approach. This will give schools greater autonomy to determine when assistive technology is required, reduce administrative burdens and improve timely access to supports.
“A streamlined application process is also being developed for implementation. Ultimately, any child who needs assistive technology to access the curriculum will receive it”.
Deputy Ó Murchú said he hoped the Louth boy would be able to avail of this. He said: “I will use him as an example. The correct assessments were carried out. The Wechsler abbreviated scale of intelligence stated that his verbal comprehension was very low, perceptual reasoning was low average.
“The Wechsler individual assessment test ranked his word reading as extremely low. It stated that he was presented with a list of words to read, he should be commended on his hard work and that this task was very difficult for him. His word reading skills were in the extremely low range for his age.
“His attainments and cognitive profile do not confer eligibility for an application for an Assistive Technology grant. However, he would benefit from availing of a laptop or device in school or indeed at home.
“That is the reality of the assistive technology fund. Assistive technology would be of real benefit
“It is about ensuring that we have a more fit-for-purpose grant scheme and that the likes of this boy will be sorted by it.
Minister Moynihan said: “The aim is to ensure that we will accommodate every child who would benefit greatly from the scheme, that the administrative burden on schools is reduced and that we make the scheme more streamlined”.
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