Exploring environmental factors affecting assistive technology strategies in mathematics learning for students with physical disabilities.

This study may be useful for rehabilitation staff and teachers who are considering implementing AT to support the participation of students with disabilities. Personnel needs to be trained to use the AT strategies, and several modifications may be necessary for the satisfactory use of the devices.IMPLICATIONS FOR REHABILITATIONHands-on manipulation promotes the active learning of early mathematical concepts. Students with disabilities may have the opportunity to participate in active learning through assistive technology (AT).Knowledge about environmental factors that may facilitate or limit the use of AT in the classroom will help teaching staff make decisions when implementing these strategies with students with disabilities.The use of an AT strategy may depend on the objectives the rehabilitation staff and teachers want to achieve during a task. For instance, the robot could be used for tailoring a task according to the student's needs and abilities. On the other hand, computer programs could be considered if time and ease of use are important factors.