Assistive Technology: Any type of item, equipment, or product system (acquired commercially or off the shelf, modified, or customized) that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of a person with a disability. An assistive technology service is any service that directly assists an individual with a disability in the selection, acquisition, or use of an assistive technology device.

Individualized Education Program (IEP): An educational planning tool required by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA), and its 1997 reauthorization, enabling a student to participate in regular educational activities and curriculum. An IEP must contain: a statement of the student's present levels of educational performance, a statement of measurable annual goals, a list of the special education and related services and supplementary aids and services needed, and a description of the program modifications or supports for school personnel that will be provided for the student to meet the annual goals.

Person-Centered Plan: The process of gathering information and goal development that has an individualized focus. The person for whom the planning is done is present at the meeting and the input from that person guides or directs the planning process.

Person-Centered Planning: The process of gathering information and goal development that has an individualized focus. The person for whom the planning is done is present at the meeting and the input from that person guides or directs the planning process.

Positive Behavioral Support: A comprehensive set of strategies that are meant to redesign environments in such a way that problem behaviors are prevented or inconsequential, and to teach students new skills, making problem behaviors unnecessary.

Positive Behavioral Support Plan: A written plan that is developed based on a functional assessment of problem behavior. Behavioral support plans contain multiple intervention strategies designed to modify the environment and teach new skills.

Quality of Life: A variety of elements in a student's life including predictability, environmental stability, level of social belonging, empowerment and control, well-being and satisfaction.

Self-Determination: Taking charge of one's own life and playing an active role in important decision-making processes. Characteristics that have been used to describe self-determination include, self-evaluation, personal responsibility, choice, preference, autonomy, self-regulation, empowerment, and self-realization.