The potential for assistive technology in learning classrooms for students with disabilities is great. Its benefits include enhancing academic achievement in written expression, reading, mathematics, and spelling; improving organization; and fostering social acceptance.

As defined by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act Amendments of 1997 (IDEA), an assistive technology device is "any piece of equipment, or product system. . . that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities" [Part A, Sec. 602(1)].