ACVREP CATIS study guide
ACVREP CATIS · Work through your exam, one topic at a time.
The Certified Assistive Technology Instructional Specialist (CATIS) credential, administered by the Academy for Certification of Vision Rehabilitation and Accessibility Professionals (ACVREP), recognizes professionals who assess, teach, and support the use of assistive technology for people who are blind or have low vision. Candidates are typically rehabilitation teachers, technology instructors, teachers of students with visual impairments, and other practitioners who want a formal, verifiable demonstration of their instructional and technical competence. The ACVREP CATIS study guide has 8 sections and about 1,883 words.
01Assistive Technology Foundations, Legislation, and Professional Practice
Assistive technology (AT) spans low-tech tools (pencil grips, slant boards) through high-tech systems (speech-generating devices, eye-gaze access). Candidates should be fluent in the HAAT model (Human, Activity, Assistive Technology, Context) and the distinction between an AT device and an AT service (evaluation, acquisition, training, maintenance).
261 words, about 1 min02Assessment and Evaluation of Assistive Technology Needs
A defensible AT evaluation is team-based, functional, and context-driven . Typical phases: referral and question clarification, data gathering across environments, feature matching, trial/implementation, and follow-up.
249 words, about 1 min03Instructional Design and Delivery of Assistive Technology Services
Acquiring AT is only the start; training and integration determine outcomes. Effective AT instruction uses explicit, systematic teaching with modeling, guided practice, and independent application in real contexts.
262 words, about 1 min04Mainstream and Access Technology for Computers and Mobile Devices
Modern operating systems (Windows, macOS, iOS, Android, ChromeOS) include robust accessibility features. Candidates should recognize categories and match them to needs: Vision : screen magnification, high contrast, large text, screen readers (VoiceOver, TalkBack, Narrator), braille display support.
210 words, about 1 min05Assistive Technology for Reading and Writing
Match tools to the barrier. For decoding/fluency , consider text-to-speech, audiobooks, and accessible formats.
234 words, about 1 min06Assistive Technology for Communication and Hearing
Augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) ranges from unaided (gestures, sign) to aided (low-tech boards, high-tech speech-generating devices). Know AAC myths to reject: AAC does not inhibit speech development; it supports communication and often language growth.
215 words, about 1 min07Assistive Technology for Activities of Daily Living and Independent Living
ADL AT supports self-care, safety, mobility, and community participation. Categories include dressing and grooming aids (button hooks, long-handled tools), eating and drinking aids (adapted utensils, non-slip mats, weighted cups), bathing/toileting equipment , mobility and transfer aids , environmental control (smart home, voice-activated controls), and safety/monitoring (medication reminders, alert systems).
223 words, about 1 min08Collaboration, Documentation, and Ethical Practice
AT services are delivered by multidisciplinary teams : educators, SLPs, OTs, PTs, audiologists, families, and the person using AT. Effective collaboration uses clear roles, shared goals, and regular communication.
229 words, about 1 min