Designing Assistive Technology That Works in Schools: Lessons from the Field

Abstract

This white paper synthesizes findings from a CAST-led study examining feedback from 24 district leaders and assistive technology (AT) users on how AT tools are selected, implemented, and integrated into instructional environments and assessments. The findings highlight the significant role AT plays in supporting learners and offer practical guidance for technology developers and education leaders seeking to engage with educational technologies and design assessments that are more responsive to the realities of school systems and learner needs. Specifically, the findings underscore the importance of moving beyond isolated feature development toward more integrated approaches that consider usability, professional learning, system alignment, and participatory design. 

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Authors

Amanda Bastoni, Director of Career, Technical & Adult Education, CAST
Jenna Gravel, Senior Director of PreK-12 Research and Senior Research Scientist
Anne-Marie Knokey, Senior Research Associate

Cite As

Gravel, J. W., Bastoni, A., & Knokey, A. (2026). Designing Assistive Technology That Works in Schools: Lessons from the Field. CAST.