Centre for Assistive Technology (CAT) - General Information

The Centre for Assistive Technology (CAT) is part of the Ministry of Education, Special Education (GSE) and provides support and advice in the assistive technology field.

Assistive Technology

Assistive technology is `simply anything that can help a person with disabilities do something they cannot do, or help them do it better than they can without it' (Reed P, July/August 98, Disability Issues).

It includes computers, overlay keyboards, software, switches and other access devices. The focus of CAT is using Assistive Technology to support students' learning by enabling them to gain access to, and participate in, the school curriculum.

CAT offers

• advice, support and information on assistive technology products
• support for assessment of individuals' needs, requests for advice and recommendations for appropriate assistive technology resources and their relevance to the curriculum
• resources available for to trial with individuals
• contact details for suppliers of assistive technology
• access to assistive technology experts
• training

CAT clients

GSE staff, teachers, parents, early childhood education facility staff, and others who are assisting students with educational needs.

Contact details

For more information about assistive technology funding and support please ring your nearest Special Education district office or contact CAT on 04-463 8947 or 04 463 8948, email cat.help@minedu.govt.nz.