Assistive Technology for Emotional Disability: Evidence-Based Strategies for Engagement, Regulation, and Belonging

Presenter(s)

Event Details

Topic:

accessibility & UDL

Format:

lecture

Subject Level:

intermediate

Age Span:

kindergarten - grade 6
grades 7-12

Target Audience:

AT specialist

educator

K-12 administration

special educator

Professional Development Credits

IACET CEUs:

.01 CEU

ACVREP CEs:

1 CE

Presentation Length: 1 hour

Location:

Plaza 3

Description:

This session will explore how assistive technology (AT) can be used to support students with emotional disabilities in K-12 educational settings. Attendees will begin by reviewing characteristics of emotional disability and how these challenges impact classroom participation and academic outcomes. The session will then highlight evidence-based AT tools that promote emotional regulation, engagement, and access to learning. Specific examples will include instructional platforms like Classkick and Nearpod, sensory supports such as weighted lap pads and foot fidgets, and self-regulation tools including vibrating timers and visual schedules. Participants will examine how AT can also support students with co-occurring disabilities and help reduce behavioral disruptions. By the end of the session, attendees will gain concrete strategies and product ideas to better serve this underserved student population.

Learning Outcomes:

As a result of this activity, participants will be able to:

• Describe the impact of emotional disability on academic access and participation, including how co-occurring disabilities may further affect student outcomes.

• Identify at least three assistive technology (AT) tools or strategies that support emotional regulation, engagement, or curriculum access for students with emotional disability.

• Apply evidence-based AT strategies to classroom scenarios to address behavioral and academic challenges commonly experienced by students with emotional disability.

Disclosures:

Raine Sims is employed by Easterseals Crossroads as an Assistive Technology Specialist with the ATLAS Project, which is funded in partnership with the Indiana Department of Education. This position is salaried. Raine does not have any relevant non-financial relationships or other financial interests that could be perceived as a conflict of interest related to the content of this presentation.