Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about HIAT Consultation to School Teams
How can I request HIAT support?
MCPS staff may initiate a request by email. The level of HIAT support depends upon the needs of the school team. In some cases, HIAT provides just-in-time support by phone or email to answer your questions, to help you find information about accessible technology, or to plan a technology Trial Period (33K pdf). When needed, HIAT provides onsite support to school teams to model the SETT (12K pdf) framework and consider the technology needs of a student. HIAT will also provide technology training at a school site based upon specific outcomes identified by the school team.
What is a Student Profile?
The Student Profile (100K pdf) is a checklist which helps determine the student's technology needs. In most cases, school teams will be asked to complete the Student Profile when beginning a request for HIAT consultation.
What is a SETT meeting?
SETT refers to Student/Environment/Tasks/Tools. It is a framework that matches the needs of the individual to appropriate tools in targeted educational environments to accomplish targeted tasks. The SETT (12K pdf) meeting reviews the following:
- Student abilities and needs
- Environments in which the student needs help
- Tasks which are difficult for the student to accomplish
- Tools that might be useful
The meeting can be scheduled before, during, or after school. At the conclusion of this meeting, which takes about an hour, the team usually sets up a technology Trial Period (33K pdf). In addition, HIAT staff can provide training as necessary. Some school teams use flex time for SETT meetings or trainings.
How can HIAT assist school teams with the legally mandated assistive technology consideration process for students with IEPs?
HIAT provides guided practice to IEP teams on using the SETT (Student/Environment/Task/Tools) framework to conduct assistive technology consideration. The SETT framework (12K pdf) matches the needs and abilities of students to assistive technology tools across instructional environments. HIAT also provides information on how to conduct effective technology Trial Periods (33K pdf).
What is a trial period?
School trial periods are a time to determine whether identified tools and strategies are truly helpful. Trial periods are usually scheduled for a 4-week period of time.
What happens at the end of a trial period?
At the end of the trial period, it is the responsibility of your school to complete the "effectiveness" section of the Trial Period form (33K pdf), which documents the degree of usefulness of the selected technology. School teams also communicate the results of the trial period to the parents. The IEP or 504 plan should then be amended to include AT that has proven to be effective.
Is it necessary for HIAT services to be indicated on the IEP?
No. HIAT provides support to school teams on behalf of all struggling learners. However, if assistive technology strategies prove effective at the conclusion of a trial period, these strategies should be listed under Supplementary Aids and Services on the IEP.
Updated May 28, 2008 | Maintained by by Linda Wilson
