Virtual Assessments

How is a virtual AT assessment different from in-person?

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The short answer…it really isn’t, and here’s why…

The Process is the Same

The process of a virtual Assistive Technology assessment is essentially comparable to that of an in-person assessment. Essentially everything that is typically done in-person can be done virtually. These tasks include:
Reviewing student background information including. Documentation can be emailed and reviewed digitally.
Students can be observed in their classroom via Zoom to understand their interactions and challenges.
Student, parent, and staff interviews can take place via Zoom.
Formal assessment tools can be administered virtually because many of the assessment components involve the use of a computer and internet.
No Sacrifice in Quality

Virtual assistive technology (AT) assessments offer a seamless and effective alternative without sacrificing quality. With advancements in technology, it is now possible to gather all the essential information needed for a comprehensive assessment remotely.
During a virtual assessment, student behaviors can still be closely observed in their natural environment. Teachers and service providers play a crucial role and can easily consult with one another through video conferencing, ensuring that valuable insights are shared.
Additionally, interviews with parents and students are more accessible than ever, allowing for in-depth discussions about the student’s needs and preferences. Many components of an AT assessment involve the student actively engaging with the computer online, making it a perfect fit for a virtual format.
This approach not only facilitates a thorough evaluation but also maintains the quality and integrity of the assessment process. With convenient scheduling, increased participation, and a comfortable setting for students, virtual AT assessments are a viable option to meet the needs of students effectively.
Virtual Assessments Offer Advantages

Virtual assessments offer the invaluable opportunity to observe how a child engages with technology, such as computers or tablets, in real time. By watching them interact with digital tools, I can gain a deeper understanding of their comfort level, ability to navigate different software or applications, and how they use technology to complete tasks. This live interaction reveals key details about their motor skills, cognitive processing, attention span, and potential barriers they may face when using digital devices.
This direct, firsthand observation allows for a clearer, more nuanced picture of the child’s strengths and challenges with technology, providing more accurate insights into their needs.
Virtual Assessment Removes Physical Barriers

Virtual assessments create a highly collaborative environment by enabling both the student and the assessor to view the same information on their screens in real time. This shared digital space removes the physical barriers that can arise in traditional assessments, such as the need for the student to look over the assessor's shoulder or the assessor having difficulty seeing what the student sees.
With both parties looking at the same content simultaneously, communication becomes more seamless and efficient. This setup fosters better dialogue, allowing the assessor to directly guide the student through tasks and ask clarifying questions without any visual obstacles. It also helps the student feel more involved and engaged in the process, as they can actively participate in discussions about their thoughts and responses.
Ultimately, this collaborative approach leads to a clearer, more accurate understanding of the student’s needs and capabilities, ensuring that any recommendations made are well-informed and tailored to the individual.
Virtual Assessments Save Time

Virtual assessments are designed to be more time-efficient. Since the assessment is conducted remotely, there's no need for travel or the logistical challenges associated with in-person appointments. This eliminates time spent on commuting, waiting, and setting up physical spaces, allowing the entire process to be streamlined. Virtual assessments can also be scheduled with more flexibility, reducing delays and ensuring that both the student and assessor can make the most of their time. As a result, the assessment process is completed more quickly, while still providing thorough insights into the student’s needs. In fact, virtual assessments are great a great option when assessment timelines are limited.
Virtual Assessments are More Economical

The time-saving benefits of virtual assessments also translate into cost savings. Without the need for travel or long, in-person sessions, virtual assessments are more economical for families and schools. This reduces the overall expense without compromising the quality of the evaluation. The combination of efficiency and lower costs makes virtual assessments a budget-friendly alternative to traditional in-person evaluations, ensuring you get comprehensive results at a more affordable price.