41 7.4 Challenges and Considerations
There are a few challenges and considerations with AT that need to be addressed. Similarly, with technology use, affordability and accessibility become a significant issue with AT use. The cost of these high-tech AT tools can hinder the widespread use to enhance learning. Genc et al. (2021) agree that the high costs of these AT tools can create an unfavourable situation, making access limited. The cost of fixing these tools when they malfunction also needs to be accounted for when budgeting for these high-tech tools in the education system. Regarding accessibility, problems can occur, such as quality internet access and device or program failures (Genc et al., 2021). Without addressing affordability and accessibility, the potential benefits of AT for enhancing learning may not be accessible for many students.
Another major challenge with AT is training and implementation. Educators must be trained to ensure the effective use and implementation of AT, as many educators do not have sufficient knowledge about AT, leading to feeling incompetent utilizing them to support their diverse learners (Genc et al., 2021). Aside from knowledge of AT, many other concerns from educators involve “skills and attitudes, lack of evaluation process, ineffective planning, insufficient budget, complex use, limited time and lack of the number of assistive technology professionals” (Genc et al., 2021, p. 70). Gray et al. (2011) provide findings that although technology is commonly found in all schools, it is not being utilized to its full potential as a learning tool. Therefore, there is a high need to ensure that educators are provided with high-quality training on implementing AT and its effective use for students with exceptionalities.