ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGIES AND INNOVATION IN INCLUSIVE EDUCATION - A PRACTICAL APPROACH

Abstract

This study investigated the impact of Assistive Technologies (AT) on promoting inclusive education, focusing on the implementation of these tools at the Escola Municipal Professora Maria Rosalina de Oliveira Pinho in Itapiranga-AM. The main objective was to analyze how AT contributes to the inclusion of students with disabilities in elementary education, as well as to identify the challenges faced by educators and the opportunities provided by these technologies. The research followed a qualitative approach, utilizing participant observation, interviews with teachers, and documentary analysis of the application of AT at the school. The results indicate that, despite advances in the school inclusion process, challenges related to the lack of ongoing teacher training and the scarcity of technological resources persist. However, AT demonstrated effectiveness in facilitating access to the curriculum, promoting student autonomy, and improving social interactions. It was found that the implementation of these technologies positively contributes to the academic and emotional development of students with disabilities. The study highlights the importance of public policies that encourage continuous teacher training and the expansion of access to technology within the school context. As a suggestion for future research, further investigation is recommended into the effectiveness of public policies for inclusive education and the study of emerging technologies in education.