The Specialized Technology Lab (STL) in the Department of Special Education is a highly unique facility focusing on the utilization of a wide array of technologies to assist and support children and adolescents with disabilities in their academic pursuits, social interactions, and home/community involvement.

Instructional Site

The Laboratory is the instructional site for SPGN 481 - Assistive Technology in Special Education, which is a required course for every department major. At the graduate level, there are multiple courses utilizing the Laboratory as their instructional site. NOTE: The STL is not an Eastern Michigan University computer lab open to all EMU students. The STL is specifically designed to carry out the assistive/instructional technology components of the Department of Special Education’s undergraduate, graduate and specialist programs.

Benefits of Assistive Technology

The significant benefits of employing assistive technology (AT) as an accommodative strategy for students with disabilities has been well-documented since the late 1980’s. In fact, the current federal and state mandates for Special Education include discussion and requirements focusing on the exploration of the appropriateness of AT for every student receiving special education services from preschool through grade 12.

Ensuring Preparedness

To ensure preparedness in AT, every major in the Department of Special Education, at both undergraduate and graduate levels, utilizes the Specialized Technology Laboratory throughout their professional preparation program.