Literacy is essential. UNESCO defines literacy as, "the ability to identify, understand, interpret,create, communicate and compute, using printed and written materials associated with varying contexts. Literacy involves a continuum of learning in enabling individuals to achieve their goals, to develop their knowledge and potential, and to participate fully in their community and wider society." (https://uis.unesco.org/node/3079547)

Many individuals with disabilities struggle to develop the literacy skills they need to achieve their goals, develop their knowledge and potential, and participate fully in their community and wider society. Comprehensive literacy instruction grounded in scientifically based reading research and evidence-based approaches can help improve literacy outcomes for many students with disabilities. Assistive technology can enhance the effectiveness of literacy instruction. It can also provide access to print and written materials and support individuals when they struggle to independently understand, interpret, create, and communicate. In this presentation, Dr. Erickson will discuss each of these issues and address the importance of literacy and assistive technology in the education for students with disabilities. She will also provide a framework for considering the impact of assistive technology on literacy and the impact of literacy on assistive technology in education and beyond.