The student (learner)

• What is the functional area(s) of concern? What does the student need to be able to do that is difficult or impossible to do independently at this time?
• Special needs (related to area of concern)
• Current abilities (related to area of concern)

The environment

• Arrangement (instructional, physical)
• Support (available to both the student and the staff)
• Materials and equipment (commonly used by others in the environments)
• Access issues (technological, physical, instructional)
• Attitudes and expectations (staff, family, employees, others)

The tasks

• What specific tasks occur in learners' natural environments that enable progress toward mastery of their goals and objectives?
• What specific tasks are required for active involvement in identified environments (related to communication, instruction, participation, productivity, environmental control)?

The tools

In the SETT Framework, tools include devices, services and strategies; everything needed to help learners succeed. Analyze the information gathered to address the following questions and activities.

• Is it expected that the learner will not be able to make reasonable progress towards his/her goals without assistive technology devices and services?
• If yes, describe what a useful system of assistive technology devices and services for the learner would be like.
• Brainstorm tools that could be included in a system that addresses learner needs.
• Select the most promising tools for trials in the natural environments.
• Plan the specifics of the trial (expected changes, when/how tools will be used, cues, etc.)
• Collect data on effectiveness.