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A list of recommendations ASHA will be making to Congress for the reauthorization of IDEA, as printed in the March 4 issue of The ASHA Leader, mentions that the Association will recommend that technology be used to reduce paperwork. While I am aware that many school districts have had success using desktop or server-provided technology, I would like to point out that systems that utilize Internet-driven programs can increase the amount of time spent on paperwork.
Utilizing 46 or more individual screens, such programs can easily double the amount of time spent on paperwork. In addition, these programs require the SLP to sit at a computer during the IEP meeting, which can make parents feel more removed from the team process so essential to success in speech and language therapy. It is also not uncommon for these programs to lose the Internet connection during the meeting, resulting in a loss of previously entered material and a disruption of the entire IEP process.
I would strongly urge ASHA to be very specific when making recommendations about the use of technology to reduce paperwork. It must be made clear that only certain types of computer programs are of benefit to school SLPs, and that Internet-based programs take away time that can be put to far better use in providing services to students.
Rita Samuelson
Bloomingdale, IL
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