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NJCU has partnered with OTIS for educators to create a micro-credential that covers everything you need to know about leveraging Assistive Technology (AT) in the classroom.
The best part? You can participate in this micro-credential at your own pace, submitting your final assignment whenever you’re ready. Then, once you receive your completion certificate, you can submit it to NJCU for CEUs or Grad credits. (Instructions on how to submit are below)
The Assistive Technology Micro-credential
The NJCU Assistive Technology (AT) micro-credential starts with a look at the evolution of AT and the federal laws that relate to its use in the classroom. Then, we’ll cover uses and expressions of AT in the classroom, from the technical to the pedagogical. We wrap up the micro-credential with a look at needs assessment, equity and ethical concerns, and a final assignment that will complete your micro-credential.
Get Started
Follow these steps to earn your CEUs:
- Complete the Assistive Technology micro-credential.
- Pay a $25 fee for your CEUs through PELL
- After payment, send an email to:
- Include the following info in the email:
- Your name/mailing address
- Course of study just completed
- Completion date
- Copy of certification from OTIS
- CEUs to be awarded
- (*4.5 CEUs for the AT micro-credential)
Finally, NJCU will send you a Certificate of Completion with the awarded CEUs!
Follow these steps to earn Grad Credits:
Do you know that you can have (3) graduate credits waived at New Jersey City University for completing the Assistive Technology micro-credential?
All you need to do is follow the steps below to apply to the Masters in Educational Technology Degree Program.
- First complete all of the modules of the Assistive Technology micro-credential Program.
- Then apply to NJCU’s graduate admissions by visiting this link: Educational Technology Application
- Include your Assistive Technology certificate with the required admission’s documents.
- For questions about the application, contact gradadmissions@njcu.edu or Dr. Laura Zieger, lzieger@njcu.edu about graduate credits.
You will be prompted to purchase the entire micro-credential when clicking “Buy Now”. This micro-credential is $40.00.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 1- Introduction
Join us for the first session in our Assistive Technology (AT) certification! We'll start off the certification with an introduction to the series, and discuss the breakdown of courses, assignment requirements, and support resources. Then, we'll explore the first legal mandates of AT in education, and cover examples of products and equipment that exist to improve learning for people with cognitive problems, physical impairments, and learning disabilities.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 2- Evolution of Assistive Technology
Let's explore what Assistive Technology is all about. In session 2, we'll identify various disabilities and discuss how AT can support those struggling with a physical, sensory, or cognitive disability. We will also discuss the history and evolution of assistive technology to identify the most beneficial tools and devices for our students. Join us as we take a deeper dive into where AT started and how it continues to advance.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 3- Laws
When it comes to Assistive Technology, there is a wide range of services and devices that children may be entitled to. In Session 3 of our Assistive Technology certification, we'll dive into federal law and review some of the existing laws regarding AT and the progression over time. We'll also explore the terminology and acronyms used in conversations about AT.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 4- AT vs. Accommodations
What if we told you that all Assistive Technology devices are classified as accommodations but not all accommodations are categorized as AT? In Session 4 of our Assistive Technology certification, we will dive into the differences between AT and accommodations by taking a closer look at the four main types of accommodations as well as the spectrum of tools and devices that fall under the AT umbrella.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 5- Designing Effective Learning Solutions
The Universal Design for Learning aims to eliminate or reduce barriers to academic success. In session 5, we will explore learning solutions and how to design and implement the most effective lessons for our students. In addition, we will discuss the importance of UDL and its place in the educational setting. We'll also explore how to best incorporate Assistive Technology into daily lessons in order to create the most meaningful learning experiences.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 6- AT in Different Environments
Assistive Technology is used widely in school settings but also prevalent in other environments such as the home, workplace, and various locations in the community. Devices like hearing aids, wheelchairs, and braille systems are just some examples of AT equipment that are geared towards improving the everyday life of people with disabilities. In session 6, we will explore the use of AT devices in various settings outside of the classroom.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 7- Hardware & Telecommunications
Did you know that Assistive Technology is any piece of equipment that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a person with a disability? In Session 7 of our AT certification, we will explore examples from low-tech AT such as communication boards made of cardboard or fuzzy felt to high-tech AT including special-purpose computers.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 8- Software & Internet Accessibility
There are a number of software solutions that fall under the Assistive Technology umbrella. In addition, accessibility features such as screen readers, magnification, and alternative input software help individuals with disabilities with daily assignments in the classroom. In Session 8 of our AT certification, we will explore some of the software and accessibility supports out there to help students with mild to significant physical, cognitive, and sensory disabilities.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 9- Evaluation of AT
Assistive Technology in education is about much more than selecting and implementing the specific tool or device. Beyond the preliminary assessment to ensure a “match” between the students' abilities and the features of a device, comes the ongoing monitoring to make sure the tool is achieving its intended purpose. Join us in Session 9 to explore plans for evaluating Assistive Technology.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 10- Assessing Needs & Technologies
Join us for Session 10 of our Assistive Technology certification to learn about assessing need, IEPs, and more. When it comes to AT, there are many working parts. These can include determining who will join discussions and serve on the child-study team, routine opportunities to meet and analyze the need for AT in different areas like handwriting, communication, recreation, and self-care to name a few. As well as selecting a designee (usually the Special Education teacher) who will illustrate the need for AT in the IEP document itself. Don't miss out!
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 11- Equity & Ethical Concerns
When it comes to Assistive Technology, it's important to consider appropriate funding and sources. In session 11, we will review and discuss equity and ethical concerns and the impact on our students. We'll also explore federal assistance programs in relation to AT and how to best share this information with other members of our school.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 12- Future Innovations in AT
With all of the advances in technology each day, Assistive Technology is no exception. In recent years, calculators, high-def electronic glasses, and smartpens– to name a few, have made their appearance in the AT world. In Session 12 of our AT certification, we will explore the innovation that has been directed toward addressing students with special needs.
MC: Assistive Technology Certification Session 13- Final Assignment
Congratulations! You have made it to the last session in our Assistive Technology certification series. You are one assignment away from earning your certificate! In this session, we'll provide you with an example final assignment and a detailed look at the rubric that will be used to grade your submission.
