The Arkansa - ADE Special Education

Increasing Capabilities Access
Increasing Capabilities Access
Network (ICAN) is a federally
funded program that operates
under the umbrella of
Arkansas Rehabilitation
Services. The funds for ICAN
come from the Technology-
Related Assistance for
Individuals with Disabilities
Act of 1988 also known as the
“Tech Act.” The act has been
amended and reauthorized
over the years, but the basic
purpose of the Tech Act has
stayed constant — to increase
access to, availability of, and
funding for assistive technology
through state efforts and
national initiatives.
Assistive technology (AT) is
defined as any item, piece of
equipment or product system –
whether acquired commercially
off the shelf, modified or
Network (ICAN)
customized that is used to
increase, maintain or improve
functional capabilities of
individuals with disabilities.
ICAN’s mission is to increase
awareness and provide access
to assistive technology to all
Arkansans with disabilities.
This includes all ages and all
disabilities. Some of the
services ICAN provides
include:
Information and Referral –
although ICAN can not
purchase assistive technology
for individuals, the staff can
assist individuals in locating
and/or receiving assistive
devices or services. Through
device demonstrations and
training the staff tries to ensure
that the customer has all the
information necessary in order
to make an informed decision
about assistive technology and
how the device or service will
assist them to live an
independent life.
ICAN’s clearinghouse of
assistive technology is one
area in which the program
helps customers acquire
assistive technology. The
concept behind the
Clearinghouse is one of
sharing. This program has
been designed to increase
individuals access to assistive
technology by being a source
for demonstration, trial before
purchasing particular devices,
training in their use, shortterm
loan of equipment and
recycling equipment. The four
major components of the
Clearinghouse are:
Short-term loan of assistive technology for evaluations and/or demonstrations. These loans are
for one day to two weeks. Examples of equipment available include augmentative communication
devices, visual enhancement devices, devices for hearing impaired, various types of computer
keyboards, education management programs, personal care items, various types of
switches and ergonomic equipment.
Long-term loans of equipment for up to six weeks. This service provides individuals with a
means to use equipment while waiting for repair of existing equipment or purchase of new
equipment. Examples of equipment available include wheel chairs (manual and power)
portable ramps, walkers, crutches, transfer chairs, assistive living devices and forearm crutches.
T.A.S.E. Winter -31