The Feasibility of Low-Tech Assistive Technology in Every U.S. Classroom

By Fiona Xu

What Is Low-Tech Assistive Technology?

Low-tech assistive technology is surprisingly simple—we're talking about things like pencil grips, large-print worksheets, colored highlighters, and communication boards made from cardboard. Low tech assistive technology in the classroom includes printing assignments in larger fonts, pencil grips, adapted pencils, and using colored highlighters to better organize information [1].

What makes this approach powerful is that it doesn't require expensive equipment or extensive training. Low-tech tools for assistive technology are simple, low-cost tools that can help individuals with disabilities more fully participate in their daily lives and activities [1]. Instead of thinking "special needs equipment," we can think "smart classroom design that works for everyone."

What the Research Shows

The Reality Check

Here's something that might surprise you: In 2011, 22% of adults with disabilities had less than a high school education. The adoption of appropriate assistive technology for students leads to increases in academic performance, independence, and opportunities for competitive employment. That's a significant gap that simple classroom tools could help address.

The Good News

When schools do implement low-tech solutions, the results are encouraging. Low tech assistive technology in the classroom-the possibilities are endless. And with that high tech often comes a high price tag, which can be why schools are reluctant to implement AT. But there are plenty of low-tech assistive technology options that can help your child achieve their goals [1].

The research consistently shows that low-tech devices can sometimes make the biggest difference in student learning. Because low-tech does not require a power source, it is often the easiest and most practical solution.

Universal Design Connection

This ties beautifully into Universal Design for Learning (UDL), which is already endorsed by federal education policy. UDL is regarded so highly that it's mentioned by name in the nation's main education law. The Every Student Succeeds Act (ESSA) encourages states and districts to use federal funding to help teachers expand the use of UDL [3].

The Feasibility Factor

Cost Reality

One of the strongest arguments for this approach? It's actually affordable. Assistive Technology is all around us! Many of the tools available are free or cost very little to use. We're not asking schools to buy $10,000 devices—we're talking about items that cost under $25 or are already sitting in supply closets.

Low-tech solutions are generally more affordable and accessible than high-tech options. This makes universal implementation actually realistic for most school districts.

Training Simplicity

Low-tech devices are typically easier to use and require minimal training. Teachers don't need to become tech experts—they just need to know when to hand a student a pencil grip or offer highlighted reading materials.

Current Barriers

Let's be honest about the challenges. The biggest barrier isn't cost or complexity—it's awareness and training. Among the main difficulties found, there are mainly the need for teacher training and education (42.86%), as well as the difficulties of access to them (32.14%).

But here's the encouraging part: 90% of respondents are strongly interested in receiving more training on AT, preferably through one-on-one individualized instruction and attendance at workshops or conferences. Teachers want this knowledge—they just need the opportunity to get it.

Real-World Applications

What This Looks Like

In practice, we're talking about classrooms where:

• Students can choose from different types of pencil grips

• Reading materials are available in multiple formats

• Graphic organizers are a low-tech tool that offers a simple, yet effective way for students to visually organize information for writing or reading assignments

• Timers help students with pacing and transitions

• Flexible seating options accommodate different learning styles

The Ripple Effect

Because so many students are already using these devices, a student using them for assistive technology purposes does not necessarily feel self-conscious or stand out from his peers. This normalizes accommodation and benefits everyone.

Making It Happen

Professional Development That Works

Created by experts and practitioners this collection of 50+ free, self-paced modules is designed to help users better understand, identify the need, plan for, collaborate, and support individuals with disabilities. The resources exist—we just need to connect teachers with them.

Policy Support

The legal framework is already there. In 1988, the Assistive Technology Act was passed in the United States, and School systems pay for general special education learning materials as well as technology specified in an IEP.

Looking Forward

The feasibility comes down to this: we're not asking schools to revolutionize their approach or spend massive amounts of money. We're asking them to be more intentional about tools they may already have and to think differently about classroom design.

Assistive technology really gives students the ability to access grade-level content and allows them to be independent. When something this simple can have such a significant impact, the question isn't whether it's feasible—it's whether we can afford not to do it.

The path forward involves better teacher preparation, increased awareness, and recognizing that inclusive design benefits everyone. Low-tech AT in every classroom isn't just possible—it's practical, affordable, and long overdue.

References

[1] A Day in Our Shoes. (2024). Low Tech Assistive Technology: 100 Easy Solutions for Classrooms. Retrieved from https://adayinourshoes.com/low-tech-assistive-technology/

[2] Built In. (2024). 12 Examples of Assistive Technology in the Classroom. Retrieved from https://builtin.com/articles/assistive-technology-in-the-classroom

[3] CAST. (n.d.). About Universal Design for Learning. Retrieved from https://www.cast.org/impact/universal-design-for-learning-udl

[4] Understood.org. (2023). What is Universal Design for Learning (UDL)? Retrieved from https://www.understood.org/en/articles/universal-design-for-learning-what-it-is-and-how-it-works