Which law significantly expanded the scope of assistive technology in special education settings?

• A. IDEA 2004
• B. ADA 1990
• C. Section 504
• D. IDEA 1990

Answer: (D)

The law that significantly expanded the scope of assistive technology in special education settings is IDEA 1990. This legislation was crucial as it explicitly included provisions that encouraged the use of assistive technology devices and services for children with disabilities. By emphasizing the importance of providing these tools, IDEA 1990 mandated that IEPs (Individualized Education Programs) incorporate the necessary assistive technology when appropriate to help students access their educational programs and improve their functional capabilities.

Furthermore, this law laid the groundwork for further developments in future iterations of IDEA, particularly the 2004 version, which continued to emphasize and refine the role of assistive technology in supporting students with disabilities. The ADA and Section 504, while important in the broader context of disability rights, do not focus specifically on the educational applications of assistive technology in the same way that IDEA does. This makes IDEA 1990 the pivotal law in expanding access to assistive technology within special education.