Use this link to find an article about adaptive technology for students with special needs: http://en.wikibooks.org/wiki/Technology_Integration_In_K12_Education/Adaptive_Technology_in_Special_Education
This article will be helpful when integrating adaptive and assistive technology tools into planning for instruction in inclusive classrooms. What tools do you think you would use and how would you integrate them into your lesson plans and into your daily practice if you had a student with special needs?
180 comments:
I, for one, found the article very interesting, as well as revolutionary, in a sense that technology as technology changes, so does education. Using technology only enhances education, and brings the material to life in a way that students, especially those with special needs, who can benefit from the advancements in technology.
As a future special education teacher, I concur with the article in a sense that the addition of technology in a special education classroom can have a profound effect on students education, and at the same time make learning enjoyable.
Some technologies that struck a particular chord with me from the article were the text reading, smart pen, and the use of an iPod and iPad. The text reading would be a device I would like to use in my classroom. It allows the students who may have difficulty when communicating to read from the computer, and in their own language as well.
I, for one, am convinced that the addition of the smart pen would be imperative in a special education classroom. For students who have trouble with reading and writing, the pen permits them to touch the paper and it read it to them, and pronounces the words as well, in order for students to understand the material in their own way.
Another crucial instrument in a special education classroom is the use of a iPod and iPad. States are allowing students to take exams on their iPods, which I beleive is conducive in s special education classroom. iPods allow students to pause when taking exams, which accredits students to continue at their own pace, and in their own matter, which I concur will lead to higher scores of academic success.
In retrospect, I for one, conclude that integrating technology in the classroom will lead to prosperity in both special education and general education classrooms. Technology will lead to student engagement, as well as interest in the classroom. Technology is a crucial element in a classroom, in which it allows both teachers, and students to engage in a lesson, as well as bring the material to life through the use of devices such as iPads and smart boards. The future of our country lays in the hands of our children. We as teachers must provide them with a keen sense of knowledge, and the addition of technology in the classroom permits us to do so. In turn, our stunners can use technology to better one's-self, not only in the classroom p, but outside the classroom as well.
Tim A
Integrating adaptive and assistive technology into the classroom is vital. I agree with the article 100% when it states you must take into account a person’s needs, preferences, and personal goals. Adaptive technology provides a means of communication for some students that normally would not be able to have their voice heard. There are many tools I would integrate into my lessons to better the education for my students with special needs. I already use Smart technology in my classroom but plan on getting more use from things such as Ipads and would love the opportunity to implement reading pens as well as text readers as well. –Dayna O
It must be the greatest gift a teacher can provide for his/her students to have technological devices to integrate into a special education class as adaptive and assistive tools for these students to develop their potential capabilities, The most important factor in this scenario is for teachers to effectively apply the device(s) that would benefit each student appropriately.
As a teacher candidate, first, I would consider studying thoroughly the special needs or challenges this student presents. Next, I would research through educational journals and exchange with my colleagues information about this student who needs a specific device in order to develop and grow as a learner. Also, I would act on the option to discuss my ideas with a veteran-professional mentor in special education. Hopefully, the district will have someone available to help us address these specific issues to ensure that our practice as teachers is headed in the right direction. Then if my student, for example, is faced with a speech impairment that prevents him/her from communicating, my first choice would be to adapt a voice output tool (an application on an iPad). I can only imagine having this student being able to communicate ideas, concerns, or feelings in general. This approach, I think, would definitely provide an opportunity se for him/her to work with his/her disability and in some way try to develop as a student, and no longer just to be viewed as a special learner, but as an active one as well. Finally, further inquiries will need to be addressed in order to have special education students adequately be paired with the appropriate technology.
Nora R.
How truly amazing it is, to have the ability to incorporate technology into your classroom to improve the achievement of your students. Although the article did mentioned a few drawbacks, in my opinion the advantages truly outweigh the downfalls. Since these pieces of technology are costly, I have decided to pick three of them to include in my wish list for my future classroom to benefit my students: SMARTboard, although extremely pricey seems like a great educational tool for the classroom. I would love to have one in my school in order to fine tune motor skills, and engage my learners in lessons. The Dynavox seems life-changing. To give a non-verbal child the ability to communicate is amazing. I absolutely feel the need for Dynavox essential in the classroom for students with communication disabilities. Reading Pens. Not only can these pens help individuals with reading and literacy impairments by almost self-correcting readers, but this means of technology would be so advantageous for children who are just beginning to read. This tool is a way for students to stay on topic, keep up with the classroom pace, while most importantly increase learning in areas that some students may be struggling in.
-Ariel V.
Technology in the classroom is critical. As we have progressed in what we have in classroom from simple chalk boards, to fully functioning smart boards we have made leaps and bounds. I remember when I was in grade school, children were thrown into a special room, and that was all. Now we have things like speaker boxes, av units, and countless other items.
I wish the article added more than just about things like the dictionary pen and the Ipad. The article does present a problem. Prices for some of these items are unrealistic. We think about the mark up on the IPAD, the Dictionary Pen. As much as these adaptations are brilliant. We fail to realize that the poor schools cannot afford to purchase things of this magnitude.
The school I work in still does not have a single SMART Board. City Schools are nearly broke. The schools are overcrowded especially in NYC. My friend is a principal in the Bronx, they barely have enough desks to seat students. Unfortunately, the thought right now in my opinion is a pipe dream. Rich school districts can afford these marvelous items, and this is sad.
I have worked with these items in other schools and know how to use them, but we have parents who have no clue about these items. If we look at the demographic of NYC students we see many poor/ under the poverty line students.
While I am all for every single thing mentioned in the article. I personally believe that many schools will be many years behind
i found this article to be a great one to end the blog posts with. It truly shows how technology is the newest, biggest and best things for future educators out there. Think about how hard we struggled without technology and even electricity when Sandy hit. Thats how life was back in the day no technology and no light switches.
I liked the part about the smart pen because ive actually used that and it was SO helpful. It helps people with APD and even learning a new language.
The iPod vs. iPad was an interesting topic to read about. Taking Exams on their iPods? It sounds like such a great idea.
There are various tools I would use for students with exceptionallities. I would make it a priority to integrate these tools into classroom so that all students have the ability learn and participate in the class.
Smartboard gives every student the oppurtunity to interact with the lesson, giving even lectures a hands on approach. Smartboard gives the teacher the oppurtunity to see media clips and utilize websites. This brings lessons to a new level.
Smart response clickers give students the opportunity to participate without calling attention to themselves. The clickers can also itemize, track and record data. This gives teachers the opportunity to customize and drive individualize instruction.
Ipads, Ipods, etc. offer apps and activities that caterer to students' strengths and weaknesses. Teachers can find apps based on students' learning styles. This will customize the lesson to that individual child.
Technology should be an asset to every classroom because it makes education accessible to everyone and eliminates differences.
Kaitlyn B.
Integrating technology is such a great tool for both teachers and students. Whether id be iPads, iPods, iPhones, SMARTboards or SAMRT tables, I believe the technology can be utilized in a way that benefits the students.
I have personally never used or seen a SMART table, but it looks like it would be an amazing addition to any classroom. Especially because it is new technology, I believe it would be so engaging for students. It’s an entirely different way to read and explore books. Another thing that I would love to have are the reading pens. This would be amazing for students who may feel discouraged to read. It gives them a sense of independency while giving them the audio aid they may need if they don’t know how to pronounce a word. And of course, I would also love to have a SMARTboard in my room. They are becoming so popular, and I have seen classrooms that have them and others that don’t. There really is such a difference of how the students are being taught. The SMARTboard is so interactive and the students love coming up to the board no matter what they are learning.
Whatever the technology is, I would love to have anything in my classroom to help engage my students!
Liz A.
Technology is probably the best way to reach students in general. However, Special Need Students it is almost a necessity to keep them engaged and involved in the subject area. It is already leaps forward with students with particular disabilities such as, students that use FM units, laptops for note taking and even voice recognition tools for them to get information down. Nonetheless, these tools can not only be used for the student with disabilities but also the student with a busy schedule. With the growth of technology in our everyday lives it is not only important that we teach students how to use them to do work, but also how to use them in their lives to make things simpler.
I, myself have integrated technology into my lessons and have found that it not only made for more interaction within the class but also a way to give a little more to students who may need it. Such as students who need extra time for notes or an extra copy of notes. Also, having the ability to incorporate more than one learning style in the classroom is a benefit of using technology. Of course there are drawbacks such as the cost of getting this technology into the classroom. Not every school can afford to implement these amenities in every single classroom. This can affect student learning in that not all students are on an even keel with others. It is important that all students get these same opportunities. Another drawback is training for this technology. Teachers must be trained to use whatever technology is in their classroom to the full extent. Teachers should know what is available to them to present the material. I would have to say that the smart board is one of the most versatile objects in a classroom. iPads are beginning to make appearances in classrooms yet are one of the tools that are under that cost umbrella with districts.
-Jon Richard
I have been using Smart Boards in the classroom for the past five years. No matter what grade level or classroom setting, the students are always excited to participate. It motivates them, and allows me to present material in an interactive way.
I would love to become familiar with all of the tools mentioned in this article, since they each meet a specific need that a learner may have. I like the idea of the use of iPads in the classroom. I could see them used as a source of motivation for every student, but also as an accommodation for students with audio/visual learning styles.
Also, the Dynavox is an incredible tool. To give a voice to a student who cannot communicate verbally is truly amazing. EyeMax gives a whole world of opportunities to students who may not have previously had them.
- Kaitlin Doria
I think that the integration of technology into all classrooms is very integralo for current day learning. Adaptive technology is something that i work with on a daily basis as a group home manager. The newest technologies have definately changed the way we support the population of developmentally disabled individuals that I work with. The biggest concern that we have is funding...and even worse the recent budget cuts to our state funding. This places a big hold on any further purchases of upgraded technologies
I am astonished at the adaptive technology available to developmentally disabled individuals today. The use of technology in the classroom can enable many diverse learners to positive learning experiences. Unfortunately,there are many concerns when trying to implement these devices into the classroom. The cost of equipment and training to learn how to effectively use this technology is difficult in this time of funding cuts.Training effort from the teacher or teacher assistant can be minimal or non-existent. However,if there is tech support and a climate of urgent need for this adaptive tachnology, I think using it will be more effective.
I found the article relevant and interesting. The technology available today is amazing. The benefits of these technologies are overwhelming and I would love to see them in action. I have had experience working with a Smartboard as well as a Dynavox, and the I pad. However, I have never had experience working with a Smarttable. Because the students are sitting with other classmates along with the teacher, this adaptive technological device seems interactive and collaborative. I like the idea of being with the students rather than in front of the board or class while students sit at their desks.
However, despite the positives expressed within the article, the most frustrating section to read was the disadvantages of these technologies. The inevitable fact is that these tools cost a great deal of money and many school districts do not have the funds to pay for them. It is upsetting to know that there are ways that can reach our students, especially our special needs students, yet because of financial costs schools may never acquire the tools necessary for success.
The article, along with the responses provided, made me reflect on how much would change if adaptive technologies were present in every classroom. Education as a whole would change dramatically. Lessons would have to incorporate new technology and the blackboard would be a thing of the past. I am sure training would need to be provided for all teachers, as many have never had or even heard of some of technologies before. Yet, I think if teachers and schools invest the time and money to become knowledgeable of these adaptive technologies they would see a tremendous increase in student success. As we move towards the future I can see a total transformation within our educational system and of how information is being presented to our children.
Romano, A
I found the assistive technologies discussed in this article to be very interesting and innovative. I have worked with SMART Board technology in the classroom in the past and currently am using in now. However the teachers I work with do not use it to its full potential which is disappointing to see because it can be a great tool for students especially those with disabilities. I would use the interactive features on the SMART program to engage my students in lessons and have them work with the board hands on. I always find that my students are more excited to learn when they are doing the learning by writing on the board and working in groups. Students would get the opportunity to collaborate with groups to create projects to be presented through the SMART Board. Students could even create their own review lessons to present to the class. I saw the SMART Table at a conference last year and it was amazing! It would be wonderful if every building could have at least one of these for classes to access. Both of these SMART technologies offer positive reinforcement for students that allows them to stay motivated in their learning process. In addition to this, iPhones, iPods, and MP3 players are great on-the-go tools. Students can access recorded lessons and videos on what they are learning with the click of a button. This is great for students who may have auditory processing and visual difficulties because they can stop and rewind the videos or recordings to catch something they may have missed the first time. As the teacher, it would be important to make these tools available to all students not only because you do not want to single out any student but because all students can benefit from this tool.
As a future special education teacher, I found this article to be very useful. I agree completely with the part of the article that states that technology helps students become independent in their lives. It helps them to think on their own and not to rely on others for help. It is not only a way to communicate with others but it also has other advantages. Power wheelchairs is one example. This lessens a person's dependancy.
The article also presents some disadvantages to assistive technology such as expenses. Some assistive technology can cost thousands of dollars. Technology can also be useless if students do not know how to use it properly. Proper training should be provided to get the full use out of the technology.
Despite these disadvantages, I am a strong advocate for assistive technology. I believe that each and every student should be given everything they need to help them learn. The expenses are worth it if it means a student's life can change for the better.
Planning for instruction in inclusive classrooms is a difficult task. Being able to have the appropriate adaptive and assistive technology tools for your classroom to benefit your students’ learning is something that every teacher would yearn for. Some of the assistive devices mentioned in the article are familiar to me, while some I have heard of, but never was able to experience the uses of it. I think the SMART Board technology is one of the most common, but like Megan R. said, many teachers are not using them to their full potential. I have seen the SMART Board used to help students with disabilities express themselves in a way that they could not normally do. It is a great tool to have for students with or without disabilities. The SMART Table is perfect for helping students work on their fine motor skills for certain activities. I have also seen the Dynavox being used for a student who was not able to vocally communicate. For a student who needs to communicate in a different way, the Dynavox is perfect. Out of all of the assistive tools, I feel that the SMART Board and the Reading Pens would be most beneficial in most inclusive settings. The SMART Board can be used in so many ways. The Reading Pens are amazing because they are not heavy or bulky, so they can be easily transferred from place to place. The pens can be extremely beneficial for students who have difficulties in reading or have disabilities such as dyslexia. I think that the pens should be used in general education classrooms as well, because many students struggle with reading.
I do feel that many of these tools are very expensive, which is a disadvantage, because many students need the assistive technology. If we can come up with a way to make these devices easier to obtain, it would be a great way to improve the way students learn!
Kerrie B.
The Technology Integration wikibook was very helpful to give an overview of the different technology out there to be used in an inclusive classroom, some of this technology I wasn't aware existed. As the wikibook article states these technology advances gives these special needs students a greater independence and allows them to interact with other non-diabled students, and feel just like everyone else. These newer programs can also be fun and engaging to the special needs students. The section on the bottom of the page about the future technology, states that even non-disabled students can use the equipment to help better themselves, such as students who just have minor difficulties reading, etc.
Because these advances are still new, they are expensive, and it is tough for many of the disabled students who can't afford to use this technology outside of school.
I believe that the smart board/table, and the ipad apps can be helpful to teach all students, especially those who need more interactive methods to keep their attention (like ADD) or those who are not auditory learners, and need to visually do it themselves. Also, the mp3, and pen readers can help students who struggle with reading or have special needs that prevent them from reading. This accommodations can help equip everyone in the classroom with the tools they need to succeed so that no students feel left behind or ill-prepared to succeed.
In my lesson plans, I would make sure when I knew students would need a special technology that I would look up material that is compatible with that technology and also adapt my lesson before it starts to help those students. Even if it means recording at home, me reading the textbook on mp3s and giving a cd to students who would benefit from it. I would try to make sure the best and most interactive equipment was used to keep all students engaged in each lesson and particularly to include those that would help those who have special needs in certain areas. All in all, the article was very helpful in giving me suggestions of technology that is out there to use in an inclusive classroom.
-Steve C
Looking over the list of various different technological tools that can help students with special needs, it is amazing to me how many students these days are so familiar with how to use technology in their everyday lives. Because of this, I feel that students with special needs should also use technology to the best of their abilities. Though these instruments and apps can get expensive in this day and age technology is crucial to success for some students. As a future educator I plan to always include technology when planning for instruction. The use of ipads, SMARTboards and SMARTsoftware can be used on a daily basis with any lesson. In terms of using more adaptive technologies, I believe especially at the elementary level, that it is important for teachers to explore all options when trying to help students excel. Sometimes training programs may be given or suggested to help those teachers become more accustomed to the technology. As a young educator, I personally want to expand my knowledge of these apps and believe strongly that early intervention will help students who are struggling.
I had always known that there are several technological tools available for disabled and non-disabled students. However, learning about specific programs and devices has given me a much clearer idea of how I would integrate adaptive technologies into my classroom. The software that allows students to navigate through the use of eyesight was very intriguing. Should I have a student who is unable to use his or her hands to interact in the classroom I would do my best to get a hold of this technology.
The conclusion of an article raises an interesting point-- this technology will also benefit non-disabled students. Should this technology become readily available, disabled and non-disabled students alike will be afforded an opportunity to explore it. Although these students may not need these tools to communicate, they can benefit from the differentiation that comes with the technology. As a future educator, I hope that some of these tools become more affordable. The students that are fortunate enough to have access to these technologies will benefit from them. But, under the current costs of some of these devices many students and districts will be unable to purchase them.
After reading this article as well as working in a school, I am always impressed by the increase of technology in classrooms. It is amazing how much technology has improved over the years and how many possibilities are created for students, specifically with special needs. Unfortunately,the ability to incorporate some source of technology, whether it is the Internet, smartboards, laptops, ipads, etc., is too often not taken advantage of. It makes me upset to see the students using ipads only to play games. Although they are often educational games that focus on math or phonics concepts, it is ashame that these sources of technology are not being used to help students with disabilities with the current curriculum. There are so many unbelievable apps that are created to help students reach their individual goals and can truly help students learn and develop a better understanding of the content and strategies being taught. As a teacher, I value the idea of increasing my own knowledge of technology in order to take advantage of the opportunities I have in the classroom to help my students reach their individual goals.
This article really gave me insight into how to incorporate technology in a special education or inclusion classroom. Although I am preparing to teach in a general education classroom, I understand that different approaches and methods of teaching can help a great number of students. I especially love the SMART Table technology. I have never seen it used before, and I do understand that it is expensive, but I definitely see how it can motivate and help students with learning disabilities or physical disabilities. As an aspiring literacy teacher, I like the idea of the reading pens. I have seen them used before outside of the classroom setting, and it does make children more confident in reading with the extra support. I definitely see how the reading pens are a great adaptation that can help children who have reading disabilities or even have poor eyesight. The only drawback about the reading pens is that children are not really utilizing a phonics approach to reading, and they are just "getting the answer" from the pen. I also love the idea of a Smart Board over a traditional chalkboard or white board. Smart Boards are an excellent supplement to what instructors are teaching in terms of Internet access to obtain more information. They are also engaging and motivating to students because teachers can easily show pictures or videos during their lessons. Of course, iPods and iPads can be utilized in both general education classes and inclusion or special education classes. I think the most important thing for educators is to acknowledge that each child in a classroom learns differently, and that utilizing technology can boost a child's confidence level, while also making learning easier and more fun.
This article has been very helpful and educating. I am not a special ed teacher however I still want to be prepared for teaching an inclusive classroom. I agree that the addition of technology in a special ed classroom can have a positive effect on students. Technology will also aid in making class interesting and enjoyable.
One tool that stood out to me and one that I would love to have in my classroom is the SMART table. It is an interactive learning tool that students can work cooperatively and at the same time. Students can use their hands and fingers to work. The students have to use their fingers in order to interact with the board, which improves their motor skills. The SMART table is similar to the Ipad. These tools are good because in many homes ipads and touch screens are already in place. They can enjoy daily practice in school and with the ipad at home. I think tools like the SMART table and the ipad are good for students with special needs because it is allowing them control over what their doing. It also allows students to work at their own pace which I believe will lead to higher success in the classroom.
I know there are disadvantages mainly being cost, but I believe this is the future of educating and it is important to make that future the present as soon as possible. These are tools that need to be taken advantage of so our students can have the best chance to succeed. I agree with this article and am a huge supporter of integrating technology into the special ed classroom.
I am so excited about the advancements in Adaptive Technology in Special Education. I have already seen the benefits of this technology, first hand. I have used an IPad in a classroom to have a nonverbal student communicate with us about wants. Prior to the IPad, the school believe the student would be unable to make requests or complete many life skills tasks. The IPad had choices he could pick from, and at the end of the year he was able to ask for a "drink" or food "bite." It was a truly amazing thing to witness. With the same IPad, I had another nonverbal student use the IPad to spell out words and press the the completed word/sentence and the IPad would say what he spelled. He had attempted to speak but the words came out with difficulty and it was mostly not understood. The IPad made him feel more successful. He participated more and became more independent. He was excited to be apart of the lesson, make requests, respond to problems and spell words out loud.
The downside of this, was the families in my room who needed to utilize this technology did not have the funds to buy it. The students could benefit in class but when they got home the could not communicate what they want/need. There was no connection from home to school. Over the summer skills would be lost and have to be retaught again. We worked to try to get the students IPad's but it was not the easiest thing.
I do feel that adaptive technology is an amazing thing. I can allow so many doors to open to a vast number of students. Communication can be given to a person who was believed it would never happen for. In time, I can only see this technology improving and making certain task much easier. I also believe that with time more and more people will be able to gain assess to these technologies. We have to be prepared to help our students utilize these technologies, gain independence with them and become more successful because of them.
-Kathleen M.
I believe that I would use most the SMART Table and SMART Board because these are interactive tools that would benefit students of special education the most. The SMART Table is a tool that promotes group work and allows students to work at the same times on the same project. When using the SMART Board you can only work one person at a time. I agree with Megan R that it would be a pleasure to have SMART Tables in every building because it would not only benefit students of special education but I personally believe that English Language Learners would do great with this because it is something that is interactive but in groups so it lowers their affective filter when communicating. The SMART Board is an excellent tool for teachers because it is interactive for them and for being able to have students listen. Working with English Language Learners I have come to notice they learn very well when they hear something so a SMART Board with recording themselves as well as the teacher speaking correctly. These are technologies I can see being placed in most classrooms and almost every teacher using because they are easily accessible and help not only just students of special education but all students no matter what level they are.
I found this article very interesting. Having worked in classrooms with students who have special needs, I was very interested in reading about the different adaptive technologies that are available to students. I have seen technologies such as SMART Tables, SMARTNotebook, Ipad, Ipod, Iphone, MP3 Playes, and Reading Pens. Some new technologies to me were Dynavox, flip page turner, and text readers. One thing that stuck out to me in the reading, was how expensive all these technologies can be, and the importance for the students to have the continuation between home and school with these technologies. For some families this might not be possible. I can imagine how difficult it is for students who adapt to these technologies for half their day, and then go home and in some ways, lose their independence. Overall, I think these technologies are very helpful to students to gain confidence, and complete tasks independently in a fun and exciting way.
Kelly Sm.
The use of adaptive technology in the classroom is great. It is a way to allow those students with disabilities to level the playing field. The negatives seem to always be the negative to everything in education. It costs too much. That is really the only real negative to the use of adaptive technology. I do not see the other negatives that were discussed to really play a major role in aiding a student with disabilities. Yes, they could become too dependent on the tool but this will become adaptive for them over time. Possibly frustrating at first but I think just the use of the technology in school will be enough to progress a student with disabilities forward.
Yes technology like the smart table and the dynavox are expensive but items like iPads, iPods, Smartboards and text readers are becoming more and more common that school districts are buying them. You do not need the elaborate most expensive device to make learning successful for students with disabilities, you just need some to level the playing field a bit.
- Andrew Pignataro
There is no question that adaptive technology will be used throughly in the classroom. As mentioned in the article both disabled and non-disabiled students will benefit from technology driven instruction. Students today are practically raised on technology, so there is no reason why it would not be used within the confines of the classroom. I agree that one of the downsides to the use of technology within the classroom is being able to continue using the technology outside the classroom. For many students and parents the cost associated with some of these devices is cost prohibitive. Given the number of devices available to help students with disabilities participate in the main stream classroom environment it would seem like the next logical step in the teaching process. As teachers we are always looking for ways to help our students learn, if technology is the way to enrich the educational process for all students, then why not? I totally believe in helping students to learn in any way possible. With so many children facing learning difficulities the educational system needs to find better ways to help students learn. I truly believe that any type of technology that helps a child learn should be used in the classroom. A child may respond to one particular type of technology and if it helps the learning process then go for it. It is all about teaching children and with the advancement of technology there is no limit to what our children can learn.
Kelly S. (Tue, Thur, 6-9)
I find it wonderful that we have developed technological tools that can help those that had little chance of advancing due to a disability prior to their invention. The fact that students can now overcome these obstacles that they face and progress along with their fellow classmates is remarkable. This article introduced me to many different means of technology to use with each individual child in order to address their unique needs. I enjoy the use of the iPads within the classroom. Students seem to love using them for interactive activities and their attention rarely fades when they are working with these tools. As a future special education teacher, I enjoy the creation of the Dynavox the most. Students without a voice are now able to communicate with their teacher and classmates in a way they were never able to do before. The ability to give the child a voice when they previously had no means of communication is fantastic. I enjoy all of these technological advances and look forward to all the advances that are sure to come and make learning a much easier process for those students with special needs! – Suzanne L.
There are so many different tools available such as iPods, tablets and smartboards that can be used for various purposes. I will most likely be using tablets and smartboards for all students, whether they have special needs or not; simply because it is extremely beneficial for students with special needs and just enjoyable for any other student with “normal” capabilities. While teaching, I feel that just lecturing is not nearly as effective as using technology. The student-teacher ratio can not be decreased for understandable reasons and each student learns at their own pace, so giving individual attention can be hard to do. I will be using tablets for this purpose because of the many different applications available for teaching. I would integrate tablets into my lesson plans by first lecturing and explaining the material on my own terms, and then using corresponding applications on the tablets to see if students have grasped the concept I was trying to convey. Since there are many different types of applications, I would be able to keep track of students’ progress on different subjects. This can be very beneficial for students with special needs because it will give them the ability to learn at their own pace and give them a type of “individual” attention, without really being their physically. This will provide these children the opportunity to be at the same level as their age-group and make the learning experience more enjoyable. Apart from the apparent advantages, it can also help special needs children in the social aspect because they will be given the tools they need to feel accomplished, boosting self-esteem. The different applications on the tablet also allows students’ progress to be viewed only by the administrator, which can save students from feeling embarrassed because they don’t “get” a certain topic. I will also be making use of smartboards because I feel it may be more interesting for children and it will be easier for them to focus and concentrate. Children with special needs should be given equal opportunity to learn and I believe that smartboards and tablets give them the opportunity to do so. It will help them to express themselves and grow as individuals.
The use of intergrating technology for children with special needs is great. When I was a student teacher, I was able to partake in the use of technology for students with special needs. In the classroom I was teaching, students mainly used just the Smartboard and computers. On the computer, the students would use programs that covered basis in reading, spelling, and even math.
One of the tools that I would love to use is the reading pen. I have never heard of this before, and I Think it would help a student with special needs greatly. Sometimes, students learn better when they are able to hear the word they are having trouble with, out loud. I could use this during reading time, when the students may be asked to read on their own, or out loud.
I would also intergrate the use of Smartboards into my lessons. There are so many programs and games that the students can use to assist them in learning new concepts. Sometimes the idea of playing games, or kinesthetic learning excites a student.
Unfortunately , the use of these products can be very expensive for districts. That is one downfall of technology. Not everyone can afford them I think that these products' costs should be affordable for all districts, and be given to all districts to use. Technology is becoming a demand in teaching lessons today, and we as teachers should be able to have these products in our classrooms.
-Jackie Kappel
Integrating technology into the classroom proves to be extremely beneficial for students with special needs. Different forms of technology allow them to accomplish things that their disabilities prevent them from doing. Teachers can create exciting and interactive lessons that encourage a greater student involvement. This in turn results in more students actively taking a part in the learning process, which is great! Students can also receive academic enrichment from programs that focus and target specific skills they may need to sharpen. Certain technologies level the playing field for students with special needs and make learning easier and more accessible to them. I believe that it is crucial for teachers to understand the diverse special needs of their students and create lessons and programs that work to increase student understanding and growth.
-AnnMarie P.
Adaptive Technology can really work wonders in the Special Education realm. I am currently working in a Special Ed. school, in an autism program, where adaptive technology plays a vital role in almost every aspect of our daily routines. Many students in my school are nonverbal and low-functioning. With the assistance of the Dynavox, for example, children who previously could not communicate basic needs and wants, can now express themselves using this amazing technology. I am extremely impressed with how quickly and easily some students are able to familiarize themselves with adaptive technologies and am grateful for their availability.
JB
According to the article “The biggest advantage for individuals who have disabilities is the greater independence they gain over their own lives with the use of appropriate tools (Wikibooks).” Technology is a tool for everyone. Children with disabilities and those who don’t love tools that is interactive. For example tablets and I pads to children are magic in a bottle. Their hands on, they are fun, and it has games. Kids love games. “Technology permits disabled individuals to have contact with and develop relationships with individuals who are not disabled. For example, a voice output tool, such as an application of I Pad, allows a person whose disability prevents speech a way to communicate thoughts, feelings, statements, and jokes”. I am a big fan of technology in the classroom, general or special education. It is a great tool to take advantage of. Simple things like making interactive books or sorties. To I pad games an autistic child learns the ABC’s. Technology is a tool all teachers should use.
Allison McDermott
The new technology available today helps to level the playing field for our students with special needs. It is important to remember that special needs students respond positively in the classroom the more independent they feel. Today’s advancing technologies such as reading pen’s and text readers enable students to keep up in the classroom, and bolster the self-confidence of our students. These students will participate more in the classroom which in turn enhances their understanding of the material and furthers their education. I agree with AnnMarie that it is critical for teachers to understand the diverse special needs of their students, which will allow them to create lessons and programs that work to increase student understanding and growth.
Chris Gehrig
Integrating adaptive technology in the special education classroom is crucial. Adaptive technology encourages students with disabilities to interact with their peers while simultaneously enhancing their learning experience. Tools such as the Dynavox allow students with gross motor disabilities as well as communication disorders to interact with their classmates and share feelings and ideas. Adaptive technology minimizes frustration and empowers students with disabilities. It is important for teachers to be continuously aware of essential technology that can be incorporated into their classrooms.
-Polina Aronova
The new technology available today helps to level the playing field for our students with special needs. It is important to remember that special needs students respond positively in the classroom the more independent they feel. Today’s advancing technologies such as reading pen’s and text readers enable students to keep up in the classroom, and bolster the self-confidence of our students. These students will participate more in the classroom which in turn enhances their understanding of the material and furthers their education. I agree with AnnMarie that it is critical for teachers to understand the diverse special needs of their students, which will allow them to create lessons and programs that work to increase student understanding and growth.
Chris Gehrig
Roisin M. - First and foremost I would use the Smart Board. I think the Smart Board is the greatest piece of technology that has been invented for the use in a classroom. The Smart Board opens up a whole new demonstration of teaching. Now instead of trying to explain and describe the Indian culture, you can take your students there on a visual trip through the internet. Text Readers are great for dyslexic students. IPads can be sued by the students for their research.
After reading this article, I feel that it is truly amazing how technology can improve the educational experience of students with disabilities. I did not know that some of the devices mentioned even exist (such as the Dynavox), but I hope that one day I will have them in my future classroom. I would most like to have a SMARTboard or SMARTtable, because as Andrew F. stated, these devices could benefit all students, with or without disabilities. Reading Pens are also great tools for students who struggle with reading for various reasons, and the fact that they are small and do not stand out makes them ideal for students who may be self-conscious about their disabilities.
The article stated the advantages and disadvantages of utilizing technological devices in the classroom, and I find that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. While I recognize that these devices are extremely expensive, I believe that they are priceless tools for students who struggle. I do worry, though, that students may become dependent on these assistive devices through repetitive use in the classroom, and this can present problems when the devices are not accessible at home or in other settings. Since the goal for students with disabilities is to become more independent, we must weigh dependence on other people against dependence on assistive devices.
I cannot wait to see what technological devices will be available to help students with disabilities in the future!
Jessie C.
Integrating technology in the classroom has many advantages. Technology in the classroom captures the attention of our students. Think of how easily a bland lesson can turn into an interactive experience using Smart boards and other devices. Technology is especially beneficial for our special education students. I agree with Jake when he states that it works wonders. I also work with students with autism and the technology is fascinating. The students absolutely love it.
Unfortunately, there is definitely a downside to this. The cost for many of these devices can be an issue for many families and even some school districts. Like the article states, this can really be an issue if the student is dependent on it at school but does not have access at home.
Overall, I believe technology in the classroom is greatly beneficial and I believe it will bring back joy to learning.
Shamika L
One very clear positive result of the myriad of available technology is the use of assistive technology to help students.
The article discussed both the benefits and the drawbacks of the different technology, but I agree with Jessie C. and think it was overwhelmingly clear that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The use of the different adaptive technology can give students with disabilities the opportunity to learn alongside their peers in the least restrictive environment. They do not have to feel “different” and can gain greater independence and most importantly greater self-confidence.
I was unaware of some of the technology available, such as the reading pens and the Dynavox. I am lucky enough to have a Smart Board in my classroom and I have made a commitment to utilize it more this school year. I think it is great that more technology will be created in the future to help our students and all students can benefit from this technology. Technology is bridging the gap between our disabled and nondisabled students. If everyone is using an iPad- how are they different?
The article does a good job of pointing out both positive and negative aspects of using technology in the classroom. I however, feel the positive aspects far outweigh the negative ones. I have seen technology be used in many different ways in the classroom. From the smartboard to the ipad technology is used very efficiently in the classroom setting.
I have particularly seen the ipad used in special education classes as a reward for good behavior. It has also been used as a learning tool to help disabled students. I have seen students who were not able to verbally communicate, communicate with parents who never thought it would be possible through the use of the ipad.
Overall the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks when using technology in the classroom.
Andrea
Technology Integration In K12 Education/Adaptive Technology in Special Education: Educational/Adaptive Technology for special education was discussed in this article. There were many positive aspects of using technology. Giving people with disabilities their independence was an important factor in utilizing technology. Adaptive technology can allow a disable person to do something that they may not be able to perform on their own such as moving or vocalizing. Money was one of the few problems with technology. It is often expensive. Another problem is that the technology usually remains only in school. The students don’t or can’t take it home with them. I believe that technology is very useful. School Districts should find ways to finance the use of education/adaptive technology for special education.
Christine S.
This article is able to demonstrate many positive aspects of using technology in the classroom. I myself have used a variety of technology in my own classroom. The use of various technological tools such as the smart board, reading pens, and mp3 players have all played a role in order to help me differentiate instruction for my students and allows them to use as many tools as they need in order to help them succeed. The only problem I truly see with these technological tools is the cost. Many school districts do no have it in their budget to provide educators with all these tools. I highly agree with Christine S., it is the responsibility of the school to be able to provide and find ways to finance this adaptive technology. The main goal of school system is to see students succeed; therefore they should be able to provide as many tools as needed for these students to succeed!
-Margarita D.
All students of any age and ability level can benefit from the usage of technology in the classroom, not as a crutch but as a tool. I think technology especially helps those students with special needs to accommodate them and help them get on the same level as their peers. Teachers are always looking for ways to help students learn, and I think technology is the best way to enrich the educational process for all students. Especially since students today are brought up using many different modes of technology, they enjoy it and feel comfortable using it. This comfortabaility also motivates students to do their work and it not be such a chore. I think that technology should be used a lot, but not overused or students will begin to depend on it. Also, I think technology being used for students with special needs should be slowly reduced. For example, a student may need a calculator for simple arithmetic, but after a while that calculator should be taken away. If the calculator is not taken away, the student begins to rely on the usage of the calculator and it becomes a crutch, not the tool in which it was intended.
-Danielle L.
Being a special educator who uses adaptive technology on a daily basis one found this article refreshing and factual. Already on a daily basis my students use an iPad or communication devise to communicate on a daily basis. Besides from communication devises, my students are much more motivated to do group lessons when they are presented on a smart board. The smart pen is piece of technology I would like to see implemented in my classroom. I have already seen first hand the benefits of advanced technology in my classroom and hope this trend continues in the future. As the article said students with special needs in particular benefit from a technological based classroom than a more traditional classroom.
JF
Adaptive technology is essential in helping assist students to reach their learning potential through the use of the various tools listed in the article. There may be some disadvantages, such as cost of the technology and training individuals; or if the technology fits the needs of a specific learning type, but I feel that to have items such as an iPod or iPod to assist in learning, and all of the functions that these technologies allow students access to, is very beneficial to the students. I have personal experience working with children with Autism, and when we purchased iPads, we were able to customize apps and learning programs for each child on varying ends of the spectrum; the fact that one piece could produce such a multifaceted and individualized tool, and the joy the kids had in using these programs, gave me a first-hand account of what the potential is for adaptive technology in the classroom. These tool can personalize learning, and customize it to the individual, as well as connect a classroom if used on the same platform, such as the iPad.
Steve Collins
This article was about adaptive technology for special education students. The advantages of adaptive technology definitely outweigh the disadvantages. They make students feel much more independent and not a burden on their family and teachers. Such devices as motorized wheelchairs and voice output tools are great tools to help them move around better and communicate with other students to make them feel more “normal.” The technology also makes the students interested and it is easier for them to learn because it is fun to them. The biggest disadvantage is the cost of the technology, which is a big deal. But I think with the funding that the parents get and the schools get for having a special education student the parents and schools could save up to afford this technology. Also the schools or parents can write to a grant to get adaptive technology to help these students.
~Amanda L.
I found this article extremely interesting; I feel the use of technology in the classroom is a necessity for the education of all students. I agree with Tim A when he says that technology in a special education class is extremely important. It is crucial in a classroom that is meant to help students with special needs because it teaches them how to assess technology on their own. Also it gives students an independent feeling when learning in a classroom which at times can feel overwhelming. Future technology is a crucial part of education and the learning for all students. Therefore teachers, parents and students need to accept the fact that upcoming technology is a great asset in the classroom and a great tool to teach the new common core. Keri M
I am a huge advocate for technology materials used to assist a student with special needs. As a substitute I am lucky to have gained experience in both contained classrooms and co-taught classrooms. Through my observations, I have seen how much a child can grow academically when provided with the tools which make them capable of doing so. In the future it would be wonderful to have access to all of the learning tools listed but, that is not realistic. The top three devices listed in the article that I would love to integrate into my classroom would be the SmartBoard, SmartTable and, iPads/iPods. I have seen students unable to physically communicate verbally but, when given an iPad are immediately able to use a speaking device to communicate their feelings. This gives educators a greater understanding of what students are truly capable of, even if they cannot show it in ways we are accustomed to. Before reading this article I had never seen the SmartTable, I am a huge fan of the SmartBoard, and I believe the table is an even better form of technology. Easy access to the table provides the opportunity for students to collaborate and complete activities as a group. This is a wonderful way to educate while building important social skills needed for the real world.
I think there are many different technologies I would employ in my classroom if I had students with special needs. Tablets and iPads are amazing because they are interactive and can provide information at a rapid pace. Students can play learning games through these devices too, which can help make the learning process feel like "fun." Smartboard is another tool that would be very beneficial as it is so multifaceted and would hold the students attention. Technology is a great way to assist students with special needs in classrooms.
-Melanie P
I thoroughly enjoyed reading this article about the different technologies that could be used in the classroom. Being a speech language pathology major in undergrad I have heard of some of these devise and have actually seen them in action such as the Dynavox. The SMARTboard is also a great tool for students may they have disabilities or not. Being a TA in an inclusion preschool now I see that the SMARTboard does involve all students and I believe it does enhance their learning skills. I also really like the idea of Reading Pens, I have never heard of them before and I believe that they would really help the students that might have some reading difficulties. There are some advantages and disadvantages, but I find that there are more advantages then disadvantages. Some disadvantages would be that they are expensive, and there is always that fear that the students will lose it and its gone forever. There are so many advantages being that it helps the students learn especially the students with disabilities like a student that does not speak can actually use a device to speak. There are so many new technologies now for students and teachers to use in the classroom I can’t wait for what the future holds in the use of technology in the classroom.
-Nicole A
As technology is becoming more prevalent in everyday use outside the classroom,it is important to mirror that inside the classroom and then challenge and inspire students beyond their reaches. The use of each adaptive technology tool mentioned in the article would be idle for every teacher, however school budgets continue to face cuts so unfortunately that may not be attainable in every district.
As a future Teacher of English to Speakers of other Languages, if choosing I would first love to take advantage of the SMARTtable and Reader Pens in my classroom. The SMARTtable would be particularly helpful with encouraging participation among all student. Because not all student have the same learning curve when called upon it can be intimidating to answer alone because it is embarrassing to be wrong in front of your peers. Having the ability to receive answers simultaneously from multiple students at a time, while also being anonymous helps eliminate the intimidation factor for students and allows the teacher to accurately gage each students understanding. The Reader Pen would be helpful for independent work in school or at home. When teaching English Language Learners the teacher can show a picture (of most words) and write the word beneath. Without a Reader Pen it would be up to the student to read and understand the phonetic spelling, this tool will now help students see and hear the word together, eventually leading to a better understanding.
- Ashley M
The tools that I would use are the SMART Table and the SMART board. Since these tools are very similar to one another, I would probably use them for some of the same lesson plans. I really liked that the SMART Table has the students working in groups and also using their fingers to work. If a student with special needs struggles with fine motor skills, this tool will most likely help strengthen his or her skills. I have seen and also strongly believe that the SMART tools are a motivation to learn in classrooms, especially with students who have special needs. The tools can give students a sense of responsibility if the teacher has them come up to the board. It can also give them ownership of their work if they are presenting their ideas with the class using the SMART tools. As a daily practice, students with special needs could come into school in the morning with the responsibility of choosing lunch on the SMART tool, moving their name to a present column, and a reminder to take out their homework. Overall I feel that the SMART tools really engage students of all learning levels and needs. Therefore, I would definitely find as many ways as possible to integrate these tools into planning for instruction in inclusive classrooms.
-Holly P.
There are many adaptive and assistive tools that I would include in my lesson plans if I had students with special needs. Assistive and adaptive technology can be used interchangeably. The use of assistive technology can lead to greater independence for students to gain control of personal as well as their education. They can complete tasks in order to gain their independence and keep up with their peers. It is a great motivation for them to learn.
Some of the assistive technology that I would use would be the smart table, smart board, ipod, mp3players and the reading pends. The smart table could be used in elementary classroom for students that can not reach and for students with poor motor skills. By using the smart table; it allows more students to interact with the lesson at the same time. The smart board is also a very good assistive tool. It can enhance the learning of students with varying types intelligences. The ipod/mp3 player can help students to study and also take tests at their own pace, either in the classroom or at a separate location. The reading pen is also a brilliant idea. For students that can not read or comprehend the words as quickly as their peers would benefit greatly by such technology. It would also help the general education students to hear the words if they have difficulty with some of the words too.
Assistive and adaptive technology integration in the classroom will lead to the advancement of students with special needs but also those with in the general ed. classroom. Technology is important in todays classroom. It enhances the lesson and helps students learn at their own pace.
In any situation, the resources and strategies used to communicate with students should depend on what is a available and the challenges that are presented. Although resources are tight and boundaries are being put in place, assistive technology is surfacing in school districts around the country.
As a high school English teacher, the use of the SMART board and SMART table would enhance the abilities of the special needs student. While reading a story, the student can pick out certain clues, map out different parts of the stories and characters in a way that helps the learning process. Especially for a special needs student that struggles with reading or writing, this technology could help the student learn at his or her own pace.
One concern I would have with assistive technology is that students would eventually become too dependent on it. While it might substantially improve learning at first, once students progress to a certain point, the technology might hold them back more than push them forward. With that being said, however, the more resources that a teacher has in the classroom, the better.
-Sean C.
This article was a good read and brought the needs of the Special Ed community to the table with the use of assistive or adaptive technology. The cons of using adaptive/assistive technology are cost, inadequate training, and dependence on these tools that are offered only at school. These are all very valid points.
The pros of using adaptive technology tools give these students a certain independence they haven't experienced before in the classroom setting, the ability to participate and be heard. I found the mention of the University of Notre Dame's study creating robots to assist students with autism very interesting. I have often found a flatness of speech in autistic children, almost robotic. As well as a hightened interest electronic devices. I feel the use of the SMART Table would benefit these students in addition to building their fine motor muscles.
I've seen the SMART board in action at my school and I can tell you it does engage all students. And the use of iPods and MP3 players to record books and give oral directions just makes sense. And althought I don't think that I will be teaching in a classroom with physically disabled children,I was amazed at the creation of EyeMax,Flip page turner, Reading Pens, Text Readers and Spoken Text.
I agree with Sean that the more resources a teacher has, it is that much better for all students.
The use of Adaptive Technology in the classroom is great and the devices are helpful, especially for those with special needs. With a B.S. degree in Speech-Language Pathology, I know how useful and beneficial they can be. Technology that helps someone communicate in class, when they are unable to vocalize their own thoughts and opinions, is a wonderful thing. They can be a part of the class just as much as any other student. It allows them to be engaged and involved in each lesson.
The tools that I would use in my classroom if I had a student with special needs are the Smart Table, the Smart Board, and the Dynavox. Allowing the students to use the Smart Table and the Smart Board would be a great way for positive reinforcement. I would let them use these devices if they achieved the goals set for the day. It is good way to incorporate it into lesson plans and it allows the students to work together and communicate. The Dynavox is another useful tool I would use in my classroom. It assists a variety of different students with special needs. It can be used to help a student, who cannot speak, to press any icon and have the Dynavox speak out loud for the student. This allows the student communicate what he or she wants to say. It is also extremely helpful for a student who does not have strong gross motor skills. They can calibrate EyeMax to allow their eyes to do the communication for them. However, this would take much time and practice for the student to learn and much money is needed to acquire such devices. Having these tools in my classroom would be very beneficial and enable those with special needs to be fully engaged in each lesson.
- Joanna S.
Technology is a great way to teach your students. I found when teaching my own it made the learning come to life, and increased the interest of the students. In a integrated classroom this would be especially helpful since many times special education students need something to grab their attention. My students in the classrooms I am in currently, use technology everyday with guidance, and I found with the special education students it makes them want to learn.
I feel that technology is essential in any classroom, especially a self-contained special needs classroom. Working at BOCES for six years, I had many experiences with technology, adaptive technology in particular. It is an essential tool for some of these students to learn and even communicate. It is amazing to watch the students's learning abilities before and after using the adaptive technology. BOCES has the funding for such technologies, other schools may not be able to make such purchases. I agree with Kara that these devices definitely engages students and makes them want to learn and "play" with the devices. This is also true in a general education class. Students are more engaged in a lesson that involves technology than a lesson involving a chalkboard.
Utilizing adaptive technology with special needs students is very beneficial to their education. It allows these students in particular to gain a sense of independence, especially in communicating their needs or writing assignments. Furthermore,technology tools provide great motivation for students without special needs as well. I already use SMARTborad technology with most classes and the children have responded favorably. This type of integration seems to be helping many students.
-suzie b
Nicole,
The topic of expense on many of these items is a great point. Unfortunately, the school I am currently subbing in, faced a situation in which a 5th grade student had his iPad stolen. The iPad was an essential tool used in the classroom for this student and the fact that someone thought they had the right to take such an item is terrible. With this said, when expensive items such as an iPad are in the classroom, teachers should always take the time to lock up these devices.
L. Gallo
That piece was interesting but my thoughts are about the tools and pricings, as someone that works in a technology based store. touch screen computers are much less expensive and probably just as useful as the devices they mention. In addition, with tablets and ereaders, children do not need to worry about the turning of a page, simply pressing on the touch screen will automatically turn the page. In addition, fonts, margins and font sizings can all be adjusted at will.
The most interesting point made is the fact that children really will be hardpressed to figure out how to communicate or learn to the same degree as they do in school with the technology they have on hand. It's an obstacle that will prevent continued learning for many and a topic that should be addressed asap.
- Doug
I found this article to be very interesting and informative. I believe that it is essential to find new ways to help students who have special needs. Many students in special education classes are unable to learn and/or adapt to traditional methods of teaching. It is important to find which ways work best for these students. Since our world has become so modernized, it may help students with special needs to learn through the use of different technology.
If I were to have a classroom with students with special needs, I would most definitely make use of the smart board and iPad. I believe that the smart board allows each student to interact with other students and the teacher, and it would make lessons much more exciting for them. I would also incorporate the iPad into lessons because it keeps each student actively engaged constantly.
-Victoria L.
Adaptive technology is something I have always felt belongs in the classroom. There are so many benefits to be gained by using adaptive technology in order to help a student who may not have all of the functioning needed to learn. The possibilities are endless when it comes to the students who can be helped by this. I was especially struck by the Flip Page Turner because it is one of the few things I have heard of which can help a student who may not have the fine motor functioning to hold a book or turn the page. Something like flipping the page which many of us take for granted can be a daunting task for some Special Education students and can deter them from learning. I see this technology not only being used in Special Education classrooms but in General education classrooms as well. There are plenty of students who are not classified that would still benefit from the use of this technology. For example if you have a middle school student who is reading on an elementary level, then the reading pens could help them to quickly increase their reading level. As with all technology, monitoring is crucial. Students need to be taught to use technology properly in order for it to be successful. However I can definitely see myself using many of these new technologies to reach students who may not have been able to learn without them. I think it would also be important to get some of this technology into the homes since there is so much learning that goes on there as well.
Samantha F.
This article provided some insight into the classrooms with students with special needs. During, my undergrad in New Jersey several years ago, there was a student with special needs in the fourth grade, that was able to stay on task with the other students. The school district was financially capable of providing the equipment needed to keep him on task. Even, though some of tools may be expensive, they're still imperative for communicating.
In my classroom, I will use the SMART board, as well as IPAD, Ipod. Using, the resources that most classrooms are equipped with is efficient. I would use the SMART board to create my lesson plan for the entire class. However, depending on the special needs of the student, I will tweak the lesson plan to satisfy their needs. Also, SMART board can be downloaded on home computers, therefore, I'll make it available for my students to access from home.
I will use the IPAD/IPOD because they can carry that around with them throughout the day.
In my classroom I already use the SMARTboard and I have seen its amazing affects! Not only are the children motivated and engaged, but it provides a different way for children to learn. Some student need visual and audio means to understand a concept.
I would love to incorporate the SMART table in the classroom. It has the benefits of the SMARTboard and it would be great for small group lessons/partner work, and personalized learning!
Shaina H.
Samantha F.
I definitely agree with your idea that integrating these types of technology will not only benefit the special needs child in the classroom. It will enhance the learning of all students.
Shaina H.
I found this article very helpful in learning how to integrate adaptive and assistive technology tools for instruction in an inclusive classroom. Some tools that I would use in my classroom are the SMART Table, SMART Board, and iPad. I would integrate these tools into my lesson plans and daily practice in various ways, especially if I had a student with special needs in my class. I would use the SMART Table as a center activity in which students would work together in a group or as a positive reinforcement. I believe that this will not only encourage group interaction but will help students to increase their fine motor skills. Students with fine motor disabilities will especially benefit from this classroom tool. I would use the SMART Board in several ways to motivate student learning, engagement, and participation in a lesson. In using the SMART Board for my lesson plans, I would include as many pictures as possible to assist students in understanding the lesson. This would be especially helpful for students with Cognitive Delay. I would also use the iPad in my classroom in many ways, including as a positive reinforcement. The iPad allows students to complete an activity on their own and at their individual pace, and can be tailored to meet an individual student’s needs.
I found this blog very insightful. The district I'm in now has very little technology it seems compared to most districts on Long Island. We don't have Smart boards let alone Smart tables. Most of our Special Education department seems to only rely on differentiated instruction when it comes to helping the students. The Reading Pen is something I'm not familiar with but sounds so great; especially because it is pretty low in price at about $200 compared to a $7.000 smart table. When I take students now to do work in out computer labs its difficult to monitor what they are doing constantly as they all want to listen to music and play games. My school is grades 5 to 8 and only 8th graders can go on youtube. Using computers has become a more of a reward system than a help in teaching. Once I have my own classroom I hope I'll be able to do more with technology but I am aware of the time required to set up good lessons with it.
Ideally, technology integration and adaptive technology is amazing. As the article states, it is a perfect. On way to aid in the educational instruction of all students, particularly special education students who may either be unable to complete normal tasks or have difficulty paying attention to the lessons being taught. One of the most important aspects about teaching is being able to hold your students they attention so that way they understand what is being taught. It is difficult to for a student to pay attention if they are either unable to participate fully of if the lesson is boring. This technology however could allow these students to feel like a valued part of the class which will aid in their desire to learn. Unfortunately, as stated, the problem here is that this technology is so expensive. The main focus here should now should not be creating new adaptive technology, but making existing technology less expensive so that these students can benefit from them.
Gabriel G.
I completely agree with this article. The use of technology, especially in a special education setting is tremendous. Integrating technology in the classroom will only engage and keep them active throughout your lesson. Using an IPod/ IPad/ IPhone apps in the classroom will bring the material to life and more fun for the students to learn. The students may even use the apps or games at home during their convenience getting extra practice in the class material.
-Christina Marra
As a teacher, I would have to adapt new technology in the classroom. I think the hardest part of implementing technology in the classroom is to determine whether a students is relying on the technology too much. I would implement the use of ipods into a classroom to allow students to work at their own pace and will also remove them from outside distractions. New technology is also accommodating physically disabled students, and this type of technology will continue to grow.
-Patrick Heffernan
I agree with many points that are made in this article. Today, we have a variety of technology that can help students with disabilities learn the content of the subject. One adaptive technology that I would use in my classroom is the SMART Board. In my social studies classroom, I will use the visual aids and interactive games on the SMART Board to help students with Learning Disabilities and Cognitive Delay. Students will also use iPods to help them read passages and primary sources that are presented in the lesson.
-Mariya L.
Using iPods in the classroom to allow students to work at their own pace and remove them from outside distractions is a great idea. These are great devices because there are many applications out there that can be easily accessed on iPods which can help the students learn the content. I hope to learn about the different applications I can use to help students learn social studies.
-Mariya L.
After viewing this post, I have become aware of several adaptive technologies I could use should I have a student with disabilities in my classroom. Smart Boards for students with Cognitive Delay as well as interactive lessons on them could make learning more dynamic and hands-on. Students could collaborate and create a Glog, for example, diagramming the causes and effects of a gyre on the environment. Text readers such as wordtalk or spokentext could help students who have communication disabilities tell stories they would otherwise be challenged to tell. Allowing all students to participate in collaborative spoken text stories could potentially create a more inclusive learning environment. Lastly, allowing a student diagnosed with ADHD to carry an iphone throughout the day could help break social stigmas associated with the disorder. An app called ADHD angel allows students to self-monitor and understand scenarios that can act as emotional triggers. The App also provides a student with useful information that may help others understand this disability.
-Peter L.
Mariya’s got the right idea about iPods in the classroom. She makes a good point that some students do become easily distracted in class. iPods could allow students to listen to material privately, either during a lesson or afterwards, reviewing it as many times as needed. Afterwards, he/she could express comprehension in a formative assessment.
-Peter L.
The article addresses many of the arguments for (better students engagement, greater student independence, greater student learning) and against (expensive, inconsistency, jealousy, lack of training) the implementation of technology in the classroom and give solutions and suggestions to overcome the obstacles of using technology. One of the most important aspects to successful student learning, especially for students with special needs, is consistency in school and in the home. As the article states some technology is inaccessible for students at home due to high cost and/or inability to use the technology outside the school setting. This is detrimental for students who learn or interact better with the technology because they do not get practice outside of school, in a real life environment, using the technology; without the technology these students are at a disadvantage again from their peers. However, in order to try to avoid circumstances like these schools should try to use technologies that students can bring home with them or have access to at home, or should try to use less expensive technology that students could buy themselves like iPods, readings pens, text to speech and speech to text plug-ins. I think the iPod is a relatively inexpensive, portable, and versatile item that could help students with various disabilities learn, take tests, and fit in with other students at school; students can also take it home with them and continue their learning there. I also agree that technology is a way of “bridging the gap” between students with and without disabilities because all students are now encouraged to use technology in the classroom for learning, projects, tests, free time, and extra help. Students with disabilities will not feel as if they are different from their classmates because they all use similar technology.
Utilizing adaptive technology to help students with special can truly change lives by increasing social skills, learning, and understanding. I believe the advantages greatly outweigh the setbacks of using adaptive technology. To give people who are mute, non-verbal autistic, severe speech impairments a way to express themselves is priceless. I cannot imagine going through life without expressing my thoughts, needs, wants, and experiences. Yes, beforehand these students could write how they felt, but an Ipad is so much easier. Adaptive technology must be such a relief for the parents of these students and of course the students themselves.
Robots assisting students with autism is a great idea to motivate learning for these students as long as they have a very human voice with correct pronunciations. In my own experience, verbal autistic students sometimes talk robotically or non-emotionally. To have the robot talk like a human would be very beneficial for the students. I would love to incorporate some of these adaptive technologies in my classroom. The SMART Table and reading pens sound amazing. Yes, some of these adaptive technologies are pricey, but I think the students who need them are worth it.
-Jessica S.
Rebecca has some great points. Especially regarding the need for students with special needs to have some consistency between life at home and school. Having the inability to bring these technologies everywhere they go, including within real life situations and environments has got to be frustrating for the students and detrimental to those students who thrive with the presence of the adaptive technology. You are absolutely right, Ipods, MP3 players, reading pens, and other more affordable solutions should be introduced first as an attempt to have the technology . If these technologies are not meeting the needs of the student then the more expensive technology should be utilized for the needs of the student.
I don’t believe jealousy of classmates is a common worry of teachers who plan to utilize adaptive technology in their classroom. I still have yet to see a student express jealousy over another student who was given adaptive technology to assist them. If anything it promotes socialization for the student from the curiosity of classmates. Students with adaptive technology accommodations is becoming a normal site to see in schools who can afford these technologies.
-Jessica S.
Adaptive technology is designed for one purpose, to produce a more equitable opportunity for students who have special needs. Any instructional tool or device that will assist students with special needs in having the same access to education as their peers should be incorporated as best as possible by a school.
For me, a SmartTable is the most intriguing of the listed technologies. I am familiar with Smartboards, yet have never used the SmartTable. With the functionality of a Smartboard, but with drastically more opportunity for collaboration and cooperative learning, the SmartTable is an extraordinarily appealing option. I think my Smartboard is an amazing tool, but the SmartTable offers so many more opportunities for peer teaching and socialization, both of which can be extremely beneficial for students with special needs.
-Jesse G.-
This article is extremely informative on the various technologies currently available to teacher and students and there uses for assisting special education students. Adapting to fit students personal needs is one of the best ways to help special needs kids and these technologies make that job easier. Smart boards have become more common today for a good reason; they increase student engagement and interactions with the lessons. The ability to create interactive examples is a huge advantage to teachers with this technology.
Dyanvox is new to my knowledge but after reading this article I can see this being needed in certain situations and schools for students with server communication disabilities. This would problem be only available to specialized schools with this type of students due to price, but the ability for a student to interact and participate in lessons they previously had great difficulties doing has an immeasurable impact of the student’s learning.
The other technologies listed here are amazing. They enable a students to do something vital to learning they previously had great difficulties with. Something as simple as a holding a book and turning the pages for a student would have a huge impact on their ability to learn due to a disability that physically limited them and now they can intellectually participate and being on the same level as those without the disability.
New and upcoming technology is a major aspect of education today, especially in mixed ability classrooms. After reading this article, there weren’t many tools that I wouldn’t consider using in my classroom with my students. I thought the use of a Smart table was great and thing it can increase student participation, fine motor abilities and provide supplemental aides in the form of pictures and video clips. The idea that all of this will be displayed right in front of the student is also good because students don’t have to get up from their seats to participate.
The Smart Board is something that I think most future teachers will use, as it has several programs and caters to various learning styles. I think this tool will overall increase student motivation, interaction and collaboration during lessons. The iPad is a tool I would use as well, especially for students with special needs. There are so many apps and programs offered on this device that students can use to help with communication, and it also provides alternative testing accommodations. The student can use this device at their own desk without having to sit at a computer, and students using this tool can type up their notes which would be helpful for any children with reading/writing difficulties.
The Mp3 caters to auditory learners and students who may need instructions and/or parts of a lesson repeated several times. As a teacher, I can make podcasts and/or record my lessons or instructions to a lesson prior to when the activities are done in class. I thought the reading pens were a great tool for students with dyslexia, reading delays, auditory learners because it reinforces the material by allowing the student to hear the written words out loud. Lastly, I would implement the Text Readers in my classroom for students with reading/writing disabilities. This can increase communication to others and would be helpful to non-verbal students because of the text-to-speech abilities.
Using technology in the classroom is very important. Technology will be helpful in the general education class but in many cases it is even more helpful when teaching students with special needs. The article talks about how it is important to adapt the lesson with technology according to the student. I would use all types of technology in the classroom. I would like to use the smart board. If the district I worked in could supply them, I think that tablets would be a very productive tool to use. Many school districts can not afford things like tablets and other technology and unfortunately the students are the ones that suffer from this.
-Nick Gilbert
I would definitely like to be able to use a Smart Board in my classroom to enhance my lesson plans. Like the article said, lessons can be modified using the Smart Board to include pictures to help students with Cognitive Delay, and it also becomes interactive which will benefit students with disabilities because it encourages interaction in the classroom. I also like the idea of reading pens. High School students who are ELLs and have reading disabilities would find it difficult to read a Social Studies textbook. I feel that the reading pen would enable the students to complete such a task and give them the confidence to participate in class discussing the information they read using their reading pen.
Using technology is very important in the classroom. Not only can it be used to overcome learning obstacles, but students find it engaging and more interesting than a lecture. I would use a SMART Board as well as iPad/iPhone's for my lessons. SMART Boards would be used for lessons, they are interactive and everyone can see what is happening. Some lessons if possible would be through apps via the iPad. They would be through self-discovery learning. Budget is always a concern, no matter the school. I can see how other tools such as the SMART Table would be helpful for younger age groups.
Technology plays a huge part in the education field in todays society and it will only continue to become more prominent in the future. After reading this article and learning about all the different types of adaptive and assistive technology, I would try to incorporate as much into my daily lessons as possible, especially if I was teaching in an inclusion classroom where the students have mixed abilities. The Smart Table and Smart Board are great tools for every student because it keeps the students engaged and actively thinking. These tools can easily be used in every day lessons and would help not only the special needs students but the general education students as well. Depending on the needs of my diverse learners I would use the tools that would best benefit him/her. For example, if I had a student with dyslexia, I would recommend using the Reading Pen and Text Readers. I would allow the student to use these tools throughout all lessons that way he/she would be able to understand the content the class is learning.
After looking at this link, I found that all the adaptive and assistive technologies listed would be successfully and productive for daily process in a classroom. I have used a smart board in a self-contained classroom recently while substitute teaching. The teacher would use the smart board to pull up a website that had the students names in the class with little icons next to their name. If the students were on task, participating in class, or just being a good friend or student, they were able to touch their name and give themselves a point. If the student was showing negative behavior they would touch their name and click to choose to take away a point. So, it was used as a classroom management system that seemed to work with their students. The incentive wasn’t only the points, but if they reached a certain amount of points throughout the day they would gain a prize whether it be to play with playdough, pick from the treasure box or get to play a game at the end of the day. After reading over some other of the assistive technologies that are out there, I would also have to say that I would use Reading Pens. I think that this would be optimal to use not just with literacy impairment students but low level students as well. I think that the benefit to using this device would be to allow the children to have the pen read out the words to the student and thus the student can better decode and understand what the child is reading. This would be a great device for all schools to get to benefit all students.
I think that for a student with special needs, technology can make all the difference. Especially when dealing with students who have problems paying attention in class, a SMART board, when used correctly, can keep a students interest. By making lessons differentiated to include students with learning disabilities, we can keep the students focused, while not making thier disability known to the rest of the students in the classroom. Personally, I think I would use the board interactively, and allow the students to write on the slide, highlight terms, and participate in other activities. This keeps the student focused and involved in the lesson.
With all the assistive technology tools that are accessible to students, it really is amazing. It is so important for teachers and therapists to be aware of these tools and learn how they can incorporate them into their lessons. The use of these tools will help students to be independent and assist them in learning. Like Casey said, the use of iPads, SMARTboards, and SMART software can be used on a daily basis in lessons, as long as the people using them are educated on their functions as well. These technologies are great for students with or without disabilities. I have seen the iPad used for various things, ranging from students using eye contact, fine motor skills, and speech.
I think assistive technology is a great tool to have within the classroom. Teachers are able to incorporate technology in the classroom for all subjects and lessons. These tools will better students throughout class. There is so many different types of assistive technology such as ipads, smart boards, etc. These can all be used throughout the day within the classroom to help students learn and to also be used as a practice tool for students during their studies. Technology is great for all students, even students with disabilities. It allows all students to interact and learn to benefit themselves throughout school.
I though the article was completely on target. I agree with the implementation of adaptive and assistive technology in a classroom not only in a special education but a regular education classroom. I work in an ABA classroom and technology is vital. These students are engaged with the Smart Board as well as their individual devices they may have (Neo, Forte etc). As the article states these devices are only as good as the person’s knowledge on how to use them. These devices are not only used in our classroom as a means of learning but also as rewards for expected behaviors (ipads). As far as a typical classroom I know from my own children that the utilization of the Smart board has helped them tremendously. My children are engaged in the lesson and have done better on assessments due to them being visual learners. In whole I felt this article was accurate and I personally feel that technology is important to both the special and regular education classroom even though the cost may be tremendous the results are greater.
First I would use the smart board for students with cognitive delays. After reading a text I would put up vocabulary along with pictures to build a deeper understanding. I would also use the smart table. The school I work at has a student with Autism and CP. She always like to be active and likes to interact but has difficulty because she is non-verbal and has trouble with her fine motor skills. I would have her use this table to be able to be active and work on these skills. The other tool I would use is the reading pen. This is a great tool for students who have dyslexia. They can read the words and the same time listen to the reading. This might improve their reading comprehension, if not it can at least help with pronunciation.
In my special education classroom, I would integrate technology by using the microphone tool (as mentioned in the wikipedia article). The microphone tool allows whomever is utilizing it to speak into it and the computer will type what was said. This would be beneficial for a student with limited motor skills. I would integrate various websites and games to intrigue students with disabilities as sound and visualization are major components to special education learning. I would make sure the games have a lot of color, music, and random sounds to encourage the students to keep going rather than getting distracted by run of the mill textbook work. Technology is a viable part of the classroom experience today, and I feel that it’s a necessary tool to use in order to progress students’ with disabilities.
I think that Technology Integration in K-12 Education/ Adaptive Technology in Special Education is necessary. Students with Special Needs require certain technology to help them learn in a different way. I think it was wise that they received help from physical therapists and speech therapists because they are working one on one with the child at certain times, whereas the teacher has an entire class to teach. I like the idea of them calling this a “tool” because Special Needs Children do need certain tools in order to excel.
After reading this article it couldn't have hit closer to home. My district that I work in has already implemented the IPads into education. Students are using different Apps on the IPads that were specifically bought by the district for students to be able to take notes, send and receive files through airdrop and email, as well as download apps that enable them to make flashcards and have a multimedia way of studying. The use of IPads had begun as a wonderful tool to help all children learn, however since our district was so new to the idea a lot of things were not considered. It has been very difficult to police students on the IPad when they are supposed to be working on assignments they can easily slip into a game like Angry Birds where they can look like they are being productive. It has its pros and cons and for some student the IPad is a wonderful adaptation for students to use in the classroom, however for other students who are very distractible, the IPad is not ideal. Other things we use on a regular basis in our school building are the Smart Boards. I feel that these boards are incredibly useful especially when it comes to mathematics. There are so many interactive tools, especially for geometry, that the smart board has to make the visualization of a difficult math concept come to life.
This was an interesting article. very true about the technology. Technology is so important today and offers variety of learning for everyone. Including the kids of special needs, like the article pointed out, a child with autism may be drawn in more to a device than a person. So if they're drawn into that device than they are able to learn and keep up with others at the same time. Even if they're not keeping up with others, at least they have a chance to learn.
Adaptive technology increases learning opportunities for children with special needs, as well as assist with the ways in which information is processed. It is amazing that iPhone, mp3’s, IPod’s or I-Pad’s can be forms of adaptive technology; because we have access to on a daily basis. I think that the downloadable apps to assist with letters/letter recognition, decoding, spelling, handwriting, fine motor development and even early intervention should be at the forefront of education. With more and more children with special needs struggling to keep pace with the rigorous curriculum in general education settings, these apps would greatly benefit them, as well as the teachers who utilize them as adaptive technology tools in their classrooms. A few adaptive technologies that I would definitely like to implement in the future are: the IPod, because it allows students to learn in a language that is different from the language being taught such as sign language. This tool would allow students with speech and language impairments who are also English language learners to effectively communicate with others. Another tool was the reading pens which are similar to the leapfrog/ leap pad pens but different in that it also serves as a dictionary.
I agree with LStein, that for some students the IPad is ideal but not for all. Indeed, it is a different approach to use with students that need intervention or enrichment, but as educators we still need to model the appropriate ways to utilize the technology and differentiate how and why we use them. Smart boards by themselves are great tools to reach children on different levels for different concepts but only when utilized to their maximum potential.
I found that the all of the tools mentioned in the article regarding adaptive technology for students with special needs to be very intriguing. After reading about each of them I could understand how students who benefit from each of them. The downside is that many of these tools can be expensive and may not be affordable to districts. Dynavox seems like something that students with special needs who greatly benefit from, especially the eyegaze technology, but at $15,000 it is unrealistic to think that a district would spend that money for one computer. I think the Apple Products (iPod, iPad, iPhone) and MP3 player that were discussed in the article are not as expensive and have the potential to affect the students the same as the Dynavox. The Apple products versatility is very appealing. Their different programs and uses give teachers many options to help such students with special needs.
There are so many benefits to having adaptive technology in the classroom especially for students with disabilities. I work with some life skills students and the Flip Page Turner really caught my eye. This tool can be a great way to help a student who does not have the fine motor skills to turn the page of a book. The SMART Board is also a great tool that majority of classrooms use now. I like the SMART Board sometimes. I find that it is useful in mathematics classes to use diagrams and write on them. It is useful when reading passages to be able to highlight and comment on them in front of the class. The boards are great in Special Education classes and general Education because the board is able to speak to the class. It can speak what the teacher writes on the board which is helpful if a student has vision problems.
The technology outlined in this article can be very beneficial to students with special needs to help them reach their full potential as well as feel a part of the classroom community. The most obvious advantage is that adaptive technology can help special needs students achieve things in the classroom which they might not be able to accomplish without that specific technology. Adaptive technology helps create a level of autonomy within the classroom environment for the student which they might not have had before and assists them in contributing to the classroom community while helping to be engaged in the curriculum. Unfortunately, the major drawback is that the cost of this technology causes the majority of students to only be able to access the technology in the classroom. In addition, more mature educators sometimes have a resistance to using new technology such as the SmartBoard and therefore their students do not reap the benefits of using the technology consistently. As technology is such an integral part of teaching today, every educator should make use of whatever tools they can to insure the learning of all students in their classroom regardless of needs or ability.
This outline can be very useful for students with special needs. Technology is very important for students with special needs because most of the time it is something they are familiar with. I think I would use like many of my classmates the Smart Board. This is a tool that is useful for any type of student. This can be useful for the tactile learner who needs to come up and touch the screen, good for the visual learner who can just use the board as a tool and the auditory learner since almost any video can be posted. I also think ipads would be useful as well, but unfortunately the cost of putting them in schools is very high.
Adaptive technology has become an invaluable resource to both teachers and students within the special education classroom. Not only does it provide students with the ability to participate like never before, it also broadens the number of strategies and tools that a teacher has at their disposal when creating lesson plans. Having had the opportunity to work within two different special education classrooms over the last two years, I can honestly attest to the effectiveness of these tools. The two technologies that are most prevalent within my school are the iPads and SMARTboards. Although there are other types of technologies like the dynavox and text readers, the iPads and SMARTboards are by far the most versatile tools within the classroom. Both of these devices have an almost unlimited range of usefulness. For instance, some of my students with Autism use the iPads to communicate in a way that would have been impossible without this technology. The fact that these devices can give a voice to students who otherwise are unable to express themselves is a miracle by itself. The SMARTboards are amazing for getting the students excited about a lesson or activity that they would normally have no interest in. Its amazing how excited these students are to learn about History or Literature when you give them the opportunity to come up and touch the SMARTboard.
I think all of these technological tools are a great asset to any special needs classroom. I would personally use the Smart Table, since it is an interactive table where students with fine motor skill disabilities could use touch to learn. This could help their disability, and since it's interactive, it could be very encouraging since they are in control and can focus on themselves. It could be very reinforcing. I would also use the dynabovox. The dynovox is a tool that would be extremely helpful, which helps students communicate who may have verbal issues. It also could help students who have motor issues. Dynavox can determine how many clicks a student wants to click with a computer mouse by determining the amount of blinks a student does. I would also use a reading pen. This would be very helpful with dyslexic students. The reading pen glides over the words, helping students to hear the word as they read or speak it. I would integrate these three technological tools in my classroom by using them in an interactive lesson, where the students learn vocabulary or study a map. It could be a great study too and help me communicate better with students, especially using the dynavox.
There are many types of technologies that are being used in common classrooms currently. For a student with special needs, the reading pen would be very helpful to help learn how to read words that students may not know. Another great technology to have in the classroom would be a Smart board. This would give the students an opportunity to be interactive with the lesson being taught on the board. The Ipad would also be great for students to have as a tool to help learn. This would give them an opportunity to have individualized learning to their specific need.
Integration of technology into a Special Education classroom is a huge advantage. The SmartBoard alone gives us many options when teaching classrooms. You can highlight articles or passages or when looking at a website for example on nutrition look at nutrition labels and when specific things you need to look for when looking for healthy foods. Hearing aids is another thing that I use in my teaching experience. One student of mine has a hearing aid and uses an FM radio/speaker that I can attach to my shirt when teaching a lesson. This helps him hear everything I am saying and if I am walking around the room further away from him he can still be very clear as to what I am talking about. It would be great to create a health blog if every student had a laptop and they could write comments, ideas, and opinions about certain topics.
Integration of technology into a Special Education classroom is a huge advantage. The SmartBoard alone gives us many options when teaching classrooms. You can highlight articles or passages or when looking at a website for example on nutrition look at nutrition labels and when specific things you need to look for when looking for healthy foods. Hearing aids is another thing that I use in my teaching experience. One student of mine has a hearing aid and uses an FM radio/speaker that I can attach to my shirt when teaching a lesson. This helps him hear everything I am saying and if I am walking around the room further away from him he can still be very clear as to what I am talking about. It would be great to create a health blog if every student had a laptop and they could write comments, ideas, and opinions about certain topics.
Adaptive Technology in a classroom is very effective and efficient. I think using the SmartBoard is a very good way for students to learn an easier way whether they have a disability or not. The SmartBoard lets students visually see and be able to have a hands on approach to the assignments. Adaptive Technology affords people the ability to make choices and relay those decisions to others. I am a firm believer in adaptive technology and plan to use it in my classroom when I begin teaching!
Adaptive technology helps many students with disabilities. I believe that some of these technological advancements will help all students, not just those with special needs. Since most classrooms are now equipped with a SMART board, I plan to utilize it on a daily basis. I liked how it said that "lesson plans can also be modified with pictures to help students with Cognitive Delay." The SMART board benefits all students, especially those with disabilities, because it helps to engage all students and encourage active participation. Also, if my school allows, I would utilize iPods to read testing materials to students. This would help those students with disabilities because they can pause the iPod, allowing them to take the exam at their own pace. In the future, I plan to utilize adaptive technology in my classroom to help my students be successful.
-Lauren G.
Special Education has changed so much in the past 20 years. More and more technology is being created to to allow students with disabilities to participate in a general education setting to their fullest extent. This technology includes devices that allow increased control of the environment or that open up access to things in the environment. I for one believe in letting a student use what ever they need to help them become successful - from pencil grips to wheelchairs, voice boxes and smart tables. The amount of devices that is available to persons with disabilities is amazing.Yes the article did talk about a disadvantage of cost, but there are so many agencies that help to secure these for students. It does not always have to rely on the districts. This will be one way in which I will always help my students with special needs- I will help them to find the paths that they can take to insure that they have every chance at using their fullest potential.
One device that has always intrigued me is the smart table. I believe this has to be one of the more powerful devices. Besides doing what it should do to help a student learn it also encourages interaction and this is something that students with disabilities need.
While I still need to explore the usage of technology in classrooms, the ones that I am familiar with, thus more confident in using are the Smart Table, Smart Board and Ipod/Ipads, etc. These are some great interactive tools that can bring fun to the classrooms.
Because many students with special needs are visual/spatial learners, these tools can be very valuable. You can use them to show videos, interact with lessons, and have kids with certain behavior issues stay on track, by doing such tasks as being a scribe. Also, those with auditory or sight issues, can be helped with voice to text features or braille type features that certain apps provide. Thinking outside of the box will help provide the necessary instruction for the students.
In a special education classroom I think it is very important to integrate technology. One way to integrate technology is to use the microphone tool as mentioned in the article. This allows students to speak into the microphone and their words appear on the computer so they do not need to type in their responses. This is a great tool for students to use because they might understand and comprehend the material but have trouble writing what they are thinking. This gives them the opportunity to express their ideas correctly. I would also incorporate many interactive and visually appealing websites in a special education classroom because those students gravitate towards that technology and usually benefit when using them.
I thought this article was very interesting, and eye-opening to just how many different types of technology are available today. There are so many different types of learning disabilities and delays, and it seems as though there is a technology or a tool for to accommodate each student's particular need.
I believe it is important to allow the presence of these adaptive technology tools in the classroom. As teachers, we want all of our students to succeed, and we must accept that each of our students is going to have a different pathway to get there. I agree with what Cathy said- that we should allow each student to use whatever they may need to help them be successful.
As for my own personal classroom, I definitely envision (and hope that I will have access to) using a Smart Board. There are so many ways to incorporate a Smart Board into a lesson, and I think one of the best things about it is that it calls for student involvement and participation. I think it is valuable because it will aid every student, not just those with disabilities.
I am also open to the use of iPads and/or iPhones in the classroom, as they are such personal devices that each student can use one at his/her own desk without disrupting other students, while still facilitating their own learning and success.
Through my own experiences as a student growing up with technology always being in my classroom (whether it be elementary, middle or high school; college; and now undergrad) and also as a Teacher's Assistant, I thought I was aware of all of the technology there is that can be adapted into lessons. However, this link truly showed me more ways than I simply thought before.
As a teacher, I will definitely be implementing the SmartBoard, SMART Table, iPad/iPod and laptop technologies that I am extremely familiar with and fairly fluent. But, I am looking forward to use Dynavox especially when I am in my special needs settings. It seems like an amazing communicative device that can prove to be extremely useful. Although I know what Reading Pens are, I have never used them and can understand the benefit they can provide for those that need support in reading/writing and also those that are English learners that might be in my classroom.
I believe technology is a wonderful resource when used properly and appropriately. Integrating it into the lesson or classroom in general can truly benefit students in the long run--both general education students and special education students. However, I am a strong believe that technology should not be the only resource.
Katie Risolo
Adaptive technology is an essential part of teaching in a general ed class as well as a special ed. But, in particular, the use of these devises is extremely helpful in a special education class. I currently teach in a fifth grade special education class and my students benefit greatly by using computers, the smartboard, personal laptops, and MP3 players. After reading the article, one device I thought would be terrific to have is the smart table. The students would be able to work in groups and interact with one another while researching and exploring together. The use of different technology for all students has become just a natural part of a teachers lesson plan. I hope that some of these devices mentioned in the article become more prevalent in all classrooms.
While I have not yet had the experience of being in a special education classroom, I do know that it is important to use technology, no matter what type of class it might be. Using technology that is adaptive and can be used in ways which fit all types of student needs is great. Using it with students who have special needs will most likely help encourage them to be more interactive which is great. When using tools and technology like this, it helps those with special needs feel as if they can interact and do things just like everyone else which is extremely important. Technology has advanced in so many ways and is continuing to do so. Things like the Smart Table and Smart Board are great tools that allow children with special needs to get involved during lessons that they might not have been able to before. Making every child feel equal in the classroom is crucial and with technology, we can do just that!
Currently, I work in a life skills classroom. My students disabilities range, but all of my students suffer from a severe disability therefore when reading these wonderful adaptive technologies, I can’t help but think of how they would benefit my current students. For example, I have a student who is non-verbal, although we have a PECS board in place for her, having a device such as the Dynavox would benefit her tremendously. This device would help her communicate and participate more in classroom lessons. In my current district, we are fortunate enough to have a lot of the adaptive technology that was mentioned within this article. For example, our classrooms have Smarttables, Smartbaords, and each special education teacher is given an Ipad to use. These devices allow for us to give students “free time” that is really educational games for them to play on these devices. Special education students learn differently then other students, so having this technology that offers them interactive learning is imperative to their success in school.
I found this article to be interesting. As a prospective teacher, I am excited to be introduced to the adaptive technology with in the classroom and put them to use while teaching my students. Working as a Pre-K teacher, I have had the opportunity to use a smart board to include in my lessons and teach my class interactively. Although I have never used a smart table, I would like to use that in the future. I feel that it will be a huge benefit in the classroom. The Dynovax is also something I would love to have in my classroom as well for students with disabilities to use in order to help them learn and communicate. I have also used iPads in order to communicate with parents and send out daily emails and reports.
I think that this article is very useful for all teachers. In my opinion, I would like to use the SMART Table in my classroom. Especially for students with special needs, I would use the interactive table for their fine motor and sensory skills. There would be many applications just like the SMART Board where I would build lesson plans around students to participate hands on in activities.
I would also use the Dynavox for students with special needs, especially students that have diffucilty communicating. I have students that I am working with now that use the Dynavox, and these students use it constantly to request and participate in activities. Teachers program the Dynavox to feet the students' individual needs. Students can hear what they pressed on the Dynavox, and students can work with both Special and Speech teachers and use it as a guide to help them talk with their use of the Dynavox.
I really enjoyed this article on adaptive technology for students with special needs. I feel that more advances in adaptive technology will greatly benefit students with special needs. The tools I would use in my classroom if I had a student with special needs are the SMART Table, the SMART Board, iPads/ iPods/ iPhones/mp3 players, and reading pens. The SMART Table seems like a great interactive tool to use in a classroom with all students especially ones with special needs. I would use it during group work and learning stations. It’s an engaging tool that allows students to learn to work together and build their fine motor skills. I would also use a SMART Board in my classroom. I have worked with SMART Boards and really like how it engages the students. The SMART Board can help students with a variety of disabilities because it has so much to offer. It helps with fine motor skills, listening skills, group work, and can be used as a positive reinforcement. Many students see using the SMART Board as fun and special and teachers can use this to reinforce positive behavior. I really like that idea of using iPads, iPods, iPhones, or mp3 players as a test taking tool. In the classroom I work in now many students need their tests read to them because of their reading levels. We have to leave the classroom and find a place and that takes up time so I feel that any of these devices will allow students to stay in the classroom to take their test while getting the services they need. It can also help boost their confidence because they won’t feel different from their other classmates. I also think the reading pen could be a great adaptive technology to use in my classroom now and in the future. For students who have trouble with reading or have a reading disability this tool could be very helpful. The reading pens will help the students hear what the word is they are having trouble with and it will help them understand what they are reading is about. I feel that all of these technologies will benefit students greatly with their academics and help their self-esteem. It allows them to be more independent while getting the services they need.
I really enjoyed reading this article about technology because I truly believe in the power of technology when it comes to education, especially for students with special needs. I have worked closely with a student with Down Syndrome and I have seen the amazing benefits that a SmartPen has had on his ability to read. His iPad use has allowed him to become engaged in his learning. Technology today helps to level the playing field for our students with special needs. The fact that students can now overcome any obstacles that they face and progress along with their fellow classmates is remarkable. This article introduced me to many different means of technology to use with each individual child in order to address their unique needs. A tool like a Smart Reader enables students to keep up in the classroom, as well as bolster the self-confidence of our students. These students will participate more in the classroom which in turn enhances their understanding of the material and furthers their education. It is important for teachers to understand the diverse special needs of their students, so they can appropriately plan lessons that meet the needs of their students.
This article mentioned many different types of adaptive technology that can be utilized in the classroom. The idea of using a SMART Table in the classroom is intriguing. I like that it has similar functions to the SMART Board and multiple users can use it simultaneously. They can do many activities such as SMART Notebook on it as well. I have been looking into the use of iPods and MP3 players to help read tests to students. It allows the student to go at their own pace when several students have to be read tests.
Reading about devices that are available to these students was definitely informative. I did not know the EyeMax was available to use with the computer and a Flip Page Turner as well. It is important for teachers to be aware of the technology that is being developed and already available for our students to help them complete daily tasks.
As a future ESL teacher I think the reading pens are an amazing tool! They are moderately priced at around $250 each, but maybe just 5 a classroom would be enough for those lower level ELL (English Language Learners). A real asset for students who are struggling to keep up and need to hear the language more often and as easily as they would using these pens. The article reveals an amazing amount of other tools but a popular one that is not only used with special need students but with main stream students are Smart boards. I really hope to have one or else I plan to ask for one along with some reading pens to help teach and motivate students in my ESL classroom. These types of learning tools provide some real scaffolding for students who are in the same classroom but have different proficiency levels or who might be in their silent phase. Technology will prove to be very useful in the ESL classroom for sure.
-Gina A.
Danielle Collins says...
Technology is more interesting to children, it is almost all that they know. I have no problem integrating technology into my classroom. Having interactive apps which matching, and comparing, and videos, kids dont realize they are learning. They are having fun playing these games, that understandingly are teaching them the material. Since all children learn differently, these apps touch all learning styles. They have the sound, the visuals, the hands on, all things that a workbook or worksheet cant accomplish.
I believe this article is very interesting and a tool that can be used for all educators. I enjoyed the positive and negative aspects of assistive technology they included, I believe it is important for educators to know all fronts and problems they may encounter. I do agree that assistive technology can help students with disabilities gain more independence and that is why I would be more willing to use technology in my classroom. Students these days know technology, sometimes that is all they know and using technology can benefit them and be more than just an entertainment but an educational tool.
-Michael O'Keeffe
I 100% agree with this article about integrating adaptive technology into the classroom. Technology is only moving forward and advancing over time. Technology allows students to communicate to the teacher and even other students. Some students today do not feel comfortable or may be nervous to participate in class and this allows a gateway for these students to become active in the classroom. Some students with disabilities may need the technology to participate in the classroom.
I completely agree in that a child’s needs, preferences, and personal goals must be taken into account. All children in classrooms should have the ability to participate with adaptive technology and have access to learning how new tools work as well. Considering many students are familiar with iPads and SmartBoards, I like the idea of a smart pen. This would be extremely useful in classrooms due to the fact that children could not only practice their own fine motor skills, but glide over a word to hear the language as many times as they would like. I would love to have this in my class one day because it would engage English language learners and make them want to come to class. They would be motivated to use something they do not have access to at home, and I believe this could be taught with students at all different levels of learning.
-Cristina S.
The integration of technology is very important, especially for special education and ELL students. The use of technology is more interesting and allows students to engage better. I never heard of a SMART Table and I would be interested in learning more about it. I think the students would definitely benefit and enjoy the use of the SMART table. I would definitely use Ipads and SMARTBOARDS. I know how to use the Ipad, it is very convenient for students to use it for games and research. It is much smaller than using a computer or laptop. The SMARTBOARD is important and can be used for multiple reasons. I need to learn more about the SMARTBOARD and I look forward to using it to help my students. I can use the SMARTBOARD to display the worksheets were working on and I can write on it so the students can follow the notes. We can also play educational games.
The use of assistive technology (AT) devices in classrooms has developed over the course of the past seventeen years ever since the Assistive Technology Act of 1998 which made funding and AT services available to students. Technology is always evolving, whether it is the latest advancement of the iPhone or the newest and sharpest high-definition television. When it comes to assistive technology, tools and equipment at a teacher's disposal is always changing and developing as well. But, there are a number of factors that need to be looked at such as what AT device should be used for a specific student, and how do you integrate the use of that device into your lesson? Most of the AT devices mentioned in the article would be useful in a classroom with students that have special needs. Smartboards are prevalent in most classrooms this day in age, and I believe are useful because they are more interactive and engaging as the article says. I recently was observing in a classroom, and the teacher had difficulty getting the Smartboard working, and one of the students was able to help out. This generation of students has grown up with technology and the fact that they can contribute and even help out the teacher with technology use shows a high level of engagement for students. iPads are another great tool, especially for students with special needs. One of the most popular features with iPads or even smart phones, is text to speech technology that allows students with reading disabilities to keep up on material so they don’t fall behind others despite the fact they are several levels below in reading. Conversely, speech recognition software can be used to let the student control the iPad by speaking into a microphone. This gives students the opportunity to also keep up as their fine motor skills mature so they can progress to using a computer keyboard. The possibilities certainly are endless when it comes to technology in general in the classroom, especially for those with special needs.
I loved the adaptive technology article. My favorite assistive technology I would like to integrate into my lesson plan are iPad apps, SMART table and mobile translators. The IPad apps would be useful for all types of students with autism, learning disabilities and hearing impairment. I already see IPads being used in schools however, I don’t see enough academic apps. The IPad would be used throughout the day and or during one period of the week. The SMART table can be used similar to the IPad but only during whole class or in group activities. Lastly, the mobile translators would be used for students who speak other languages. This can be helpful for the students through the day when reading. My only fear are for the all devices aka IPad, SMART table and the mobile translator to get broken by a student because it might take some time to get repaired or get a new one. In addition, students stealing devices.
Giovanna Bove
Blog Reflection #6
Two of the tools I would use in my lesson plans are the Smart Table and Smart Board. These products encourage collaborative learning in the classroom and social interaction. By having students with disabilities and general education students work on activities together you are giving the students with disabilities the opportunity to feel included.
On the smart table I would be able to download hundreds of different activities for my students to do together. This will make the learning process fun because the students will not be doing the same thing over and over again. They can have a new lesson on the smart table every day. I would encourage students to discuss the answers prior to completing the activity so they can learn from each other. This tool is adaptive to all students because it will help students with any disability and is wheel chair accessible.
By using the smart board along with the smart table I would be able to sync lessons on the board to pull up in front of the classroom. If a student has any questions regarding the activity, I will be able to address it and show the entire class instead of just the students at the smart table.
I would definitely use MP3 Players in my classroom. I chose this tool because I have a lot of children who are speech/language impaired. This MP3 player can record during instruction and when I give out directions. The students can listen again to better process the information.
Another tool I would use is an iPad. I can upload stories that we listen to on the iPad for the students in my class who have difficulty listening. In addition, I can use apps that are useful for students who have difficulty in a particular area. For example, I have a student who does not know any English. I can use a picture app that has Spanish and English translations.
The last tool I would like to use in my classroom is text readers. One of my students has a lot of trouble communicating. Spoken Text would be great for this student because she can convert a text to speech. It would be nice to have her participate in the classroom. In addition, it helps me get a better understand of who the student is so that I can better accommodate her needs and learning style.
It is in the area of special education that technology really shines. This is not just because of how the various tools listed in the article can be used to enhance the education and learning for students with special needs or disabilities, but it is because, like most adaptive strategies that can be employed in special education, the strategies and technology also enhance the learning experience for all students, regardless of need.
The article focused primarily on using technology to address the needs of students with disabilities, and some are highly specialized like the Page-turner, Dynavox, and EyeMax, but most others listed, like Smart Boards and Ipads, are already becoming standard equipment in many schools. Thus, teachers already have these tools at their fingertips, and students are quite familiar with them as well.
A chief advantage of tools like a Smart Board, Smart Table, or Ipad, is their flexibility, and application across a wide range of student needs and abilities. With the myriad of apps available, there is something that can help every student you are likely to come across in your classroom. Many of the apps may be beneficial to non-special need students, and even teachers. A teacher can use some of the language training apps for instance to learn how to better communicate with their students. The organizational apps can be helpful to anyone. I currently use Ipads in the physics lab fo data collection and analysis, and I would certainly use them as adaptive aids for students that need help in some areas.
P.S. while the links in the document listing apps for the IOS devices are not working, almost all of the apps listed come up in a quick search in the app store, as well as other related apps not listed.
This article was very interesting. The SMART table would be very useful in both a general education classroom and an inclusive classroom. This type of technology can help bring the class together. In a general education classroom, this technology would be helpful to students who struggle with fine motor skills. This would enable these students to interact with the entire class. SMART Boards are extremely useful in all classrooms and would only enhance an inclusive classroom. IPads/IPods/IPhones/Mp3 Players are all great tools in all classrooms as long as they are used in a productive and educational manner. These types of devices can help students with disabilities on exams. Students who struggle with distracting noises can wear headphones to focus. Students with hearing impairments may be better served in a classroom with one of these devices. Assistive and adapted technology are great told for inclusive classrooms. However, you must know the students first. Not every student will feel comfortable using this technology. Just because this technology is available to us today, does not mean that we must use it. We must do what is best for each individual student.
I, for one, found the article very interesting, as well as revolutionary, in a sense that technology as technology changes, so does education. Using technology only enhances education, and brings the material to life in a way that students, especially those with special needs, who can benefit from the advancements in technology.
I am still holding strong though that technology should not be overused in a general education classroom and a special education classroom. Yes, it is very beneficial but I have seen what a distraction it can be, as we all have and the only true way of learning is hands on. Technology can help tremendously, don't get me wrong, but to me its not real life.
Interesting article though
There are a few tools that I would like to integrate into my Spanish classroom The first tool that I thought was really interesting was the reading pen. A foreign language is extremely difficult to read especially for students that have literacy impairments. With this tool, students will be able to do classwork. tests and homework by having the words read to them. Many students like this may be very capable of speaking a foreign language and the pen will allow them to associate their knowledge of spoken language with the written language. Another piece of technology I liked is the SmartBoard and the SmartTable. This can allow students with motor skill problems perform activities such as vocabulary picture/word matching tasks and categorizing vocabulary by topic or theme. Both are very common in the foreign language class and this allows students to do their own work and demonstrate their knowledge that would otherwise be hidden by their lack of ability to write well. I also like the SmartBoard and SmartTable because it allows and encourages students to work in groups because it accepts multiple points of input. Group work is also important in the foreign language classroom because it gets students to speak the target language in a non-threatening setting. Group work also benefits students with special needs as they can learn from typically functioning students.
This article did a great job providing a different perspective on adaptive technology than what is normally discussed. I thought it was really significant that the article had mentioned the evaluation time necessary to see if a technology was a good fit is much longer than we'd typically expect it to be. I also appreciated the costs being mentioned for each technology and information on how the products are packaged.
Clearly, the use of tablet technology and iPads will be a major part of future (and current) classrooms. This article only makes this seem to be the case even moreso. Using the iPad as an adaptive communication tool makes total sense for any classroom, but works perfectly for mathematics as well. Having the processing power of tablet technology, audio can be converted in to text and vice versa. The article also mentions the technology's ability to convert information from one language to another which is a strategy that will be key in engaging English language learners. Finally, tablets will provide interconnected in the classroom between all learners through document collaboration and other networked applications so that all students no matter their strengths or weaknesses may remain in communication with each other.
Gabriel Ramos said ....
I think that it is very important to remember the purpose of adaptive technology. Adaptive technology is to help the individual to perform tasks that are difficult or impossible without the tool. I currently using iPad's in my classroom. The use of iPad's are viewed as additional tools set to aid a child in his overall learning process. It is used as a tool, not a replacement of a teacher's human interaction or a fellow classmates collaboration. As we know, all children retain information differently. Technological tools such as iPad's help assess students in different ways. This allows the students to excel in different areas of the class, and also allows for the teacher to assess each student objectively. One of my favorite advantages of the iPad is that the students are able to use these devices outside of the classroom. Another advantage is that students are able to engage differently and efficiently with both teachers and peers. One disadvantage that I have noticed are a students over reliance on technology.
The uses of adaptive technology are not only beneficial to special needs students and all students alike, but should be required! Every student is different and learns/retains information and content in different ways. By using adaptive technology students will have the opportunity to use this technology to aid in their specific mental or physical disability. After reading this article there are many different types of adaptive technology that I would love to use in the future and in my future classroom. I am a big fan of technology playing a prominent role in the classroom and in every day classroom life so use of some of these devices would not only make me happy as an educator but will benefit my students (disability or not) beyond belief. Some of the devices I will look into using in the future are the SMART table, Reading Pen, Flip Page Turner, and of course the SMART board. The SMART table is great for collaborative work and encouraging creativity within group work/assignments. I believe that the Reading Pen and Flip Page turner can be valuable devices for my mentally/physically disabled students.
Technology has proven to be one of the best ways to help students with disabilities learn in a way that they never could. Technology allows students with disabilities a chance to express themselves and feel a part of the class. I teach Middle School Social Studies and all of my students are given an iPad by the school. I have seen the iPad work wonders for the child who greatly struggles with writing or reading. Apps that read the text aloud for the student has helped reading and listening comprehension. Students with a disability in fine motor skills usually have difficulty when it comes to writing. The use of the iPad makes these students feel more comfortable and allows them to learn at the same level as the rest of the class.
What tools do you think you would use and how would you integrate them into your lesson plans and into your daily practice if you had a student with special needs?
After finding an article about integrating tools into the classroom, I found a few different types of useful tools that I would be able to use in order to aide students will special needs. The first thing that I believe is and can be one of the best ways to help students with disabilities is the use of an Ipad. Ipads are a very good resource to provide students with almost every piece of information in the world, at each and every students´ finger tips. I also was able to reading pens, for students. Reading pens have a lot of uses that are very good in aiding students with information, such as spelling, reading, translating or even storing information for later. These two devices are great sources to provide students with disabilities a better opportunity to perform better in the classroom.
The most useful way to incorporate technology into the classroom for the needs of individual students is through the use of adaptive technology. These forms of technology provide students with tools that will help them perform basic skills, and develop practical, functional, and useful abilities. I would love to be able to use an interactive SMART Table into daily lesson plans for students with special needs. For students who have difficulties using their fine motor skills, the SMART Table provides them with a hands-on and interactive system to touch and explore while learning. They must interact with the table using their finger, thus allowing them to strengthen their fine motor skills. I would use the SMART Table to reinforce the lesson content with a small group of students, including the students with deficiencies in their fine motor abilities. This will provide them with valuable and enjoyable learning experiences and time to focus on building their fine motor skills.
Even though I teach preschooler I make sure I incorporate technology since my classroom is an inclusion classroom with children with special need and using the computer was the best way to Differentiate. I did a lesson on sink and float, I used my water table and had an item that will sink or float but the children will make their own hypothesis by doing the experiment. I had one student that didn't like to play with the water so I was able to go on the computer go to a website with the same theme and work on the sink and float. This great tool will help the student with a disability to be able to learn. I wish for the younger class we have more computer or tablet so they will be able to learn different ways. I don't have a smartboard in my class but will work in handy with the younger students who are having trouble understanding what to do. I believe working in group work and will help the children work independently and also give the teacher and Idea of the child struggle and to keep a record. In the future, I would like to use Edmodo its great tools where parents, student, and teacher can keep connected with their child work and what area of weakness they struggle and the teacher can put the child progress grade for the parents. The program will help the student go online and find their assignment because too many students be rushing writing down how so they can catch the bus this tools will eliminate what the child had miss and keep track of their work.
I Like Nicole Pataky Idea on a smart table for the student I think the younger children would love them since they are also working on their fine and gross motor skilled it will come in handy for preschoolers
In my classroom this year, a majority of my students struggle with reading passages independently. After exploring this blog post, I have come across a form of adaptive and assisitive technology that would be beneficial to my students growth in the mainstream classroom. Reading pens allow students to scan over words with the pen and it will enunciate it. This will give students with a learning disability in the field of reading, especially with decoding, a chance to really relate what the word sounds like to what it looks like.
Unfortunately being a teacher in a class 28 students, 9 of those with disabilities, it is hard to accommodate all students, especially with reading to them. This pen will give them the adaptations they need to be on the same playing field as their fellow classmates. This is an easy form of technology that can be implemented everyday during independent practice for all content areas.
Thanks to technological advances, we are able to provide such great devices for children with disabilities. I agree with the points the article makes about including adaptive technology in each classroom. It is such a necessity; children may possess some of these items already such as an iPod, smartphone, tablet, etc. which could be beneficial in the classroom. It is unfortunate however that these items cost so much money that schools cannot afford to have many if even one of these items for student use. I like the comment about the SMARTtable which I wish I had in my classroom. During my student teaching I was able to use one a few times and it is just plain awesome.
Kerri, I can imagine the difficulty in trying to accommodate all students, especially with 9 of them with disabilities. It would be fantastic if all schools would be able to have these new pieces of technology so classrooms like yours can benefit from their use.
The article does a great job of pointing out how technology can help the inclusive classroom or just help students with disabilities. First of all, I love the diversity of disabilities that could be helped with technology. For example, handicapped disabilities can be helped by powered wheelchairs. Also, reading pens can assist students with reading difficulties, such as Dyslexia. The reading includes a study that mentions robots will help students with Autism with social behaviors and communication. However, a major draw back of technology is the price it costs. The technology discussed in the article is usually very expensive and therefore makes it difficult for schools to purchase. Last, I like how the article mentions that speech therapists and physical therapists implement technology in their assessments to see what they need and what would help students be successful.
Technology can be an asset to all students whether they have disability or not. This article provides excellent devices which students with disabilities can use in order to be successful in the classroom. I have actually used the Smart Table in my school and it is quite amazing. It was used with two different children who have autism and they were able to interact with what they were learning and have a better grasp of the different information featured on the table. As Angela stated in her post, it is extremely unfortunate that these tools are so expensive. Students in schools which do not have the budget for these devices, leave the students with disabilities at a disadvantage. There should be a way in order to make these devices available to all schools.
I agree with Dana that technology can be an asset to all students with and without disabilities. I use a Smart Board every day in my classroom. It allows me to create activities that are interactive for my students and much more. I especially like that I am able to have those activities along with picture, diagrams, videos, and other forms of multimedia readily accessible. This is important as to teach all different types of learners, especially with students with disabilities. Unfortunately, many of the tools that the article talked about are so expensive that the school I work at can not afford them. These devices should be available so that schools can utilize the technology for the purpose of its design. I especially would love the opportunity to use the Smart Table since it would allow the students with disabilities to be more engaged in what they are learning.
The article provides a wide range of adaptive and assisted technology that can be used in an inclusive classroom. If the school budget allows for it I would incorporate the Smart table. This is an interactive learning center where the entire class can benefit from. It has the capabilities of the Smart Board. Students can sit around it and touch the surface. It is suitable for students with mild motor disabilities and can help bulid their motor skills. These students also have an opportunity to interact with the entire class, as opposed to working separately because of their disability. The smart table has the capability of being able to accept multiple touches simultaneously, and this is also an advantage for the class as a whole. Students can view images from different angles and this will even be beneficial to students in wheelchairs. For students with severe motor disabilities I would like to incorporate the Flip Page turner. This device sits on a table and allows the reader to press a button or use a mouthpiece. This will allow for students with severe disabilities to be independent and still be a part of class readings and actitivties. I also see reading pens as a must have for students with special needs. Whether it’s severe or mild, these students can benefit by using these pens. By gliding the pen over the word the words can be pronounced. Finally I will utilize Text readers. They are free downloadable software that can be helpful for students with communication disabilities. It translates their messages into text or text into speech. Therefore it can allow these students to contribute to the lesson and activities, so that they will not feel left out. They are able to make a contribution and feel like they are part of the class community.
This article discusses and explains the purpose of adaptive technonology. This type of technology is helpful to student with disabilities by taking into account the persons needs and personal goals. This type of technology provides them with the tools they need to communicate, and also they are able to make their own choices. This gives these indiviudlas a way where things they normally can't do alone, can finally do a task on their own without constant help. These "tools" are creating a bridge between people who have disabilities and people who don't. If a student in the classroom can't communicate they are able to feel as if they are still a part of the class community if they use the voice output toll which allows the personn to communicate their thoughts and feelings through the tool. Learning is also a use advantage from gaining access to these tools. As we move foward our world is comnstantly updating and creating new technology to better the world. Here we are seeing ways students and children with disabilties can have a way to communicate with their peers and other adullts around them.
This article discussed the importance of the use of technology and how it can be used to meet the needs of a specific individual. Many students use adaptive technology because they can not complete their academic work without it. A great thing about adaptive technology is that once the individual gets accustomed to it, they can use it on their own in their day to day activities. Learning is definitely made possible with adaptive technology. I work with students with autism and four out of six students in my classroom use some form of adaptive technology. They use it to communicate and express their wants and needs with others. One disadvantage that is stated in the article is the financial aspect of using technology. Even though in most cases it is very crucial for the student to have some form of adaptive technology, it might not be in their budget which can be a major setback to their learning progress.
This article discusses the importance of iPods, iPhones, and mp3 players in the classroom. I think these are great devices for children to use who have special needs. The article discusses how instead of a student, who has a learning disability, leave the classroom to a take a test the student can take the test on the iPhone or iPod which, allows the student to pause when necessary and go at their own pace. It allows the student to feel comfortable while taking the test and not worry about what the other kids will say if they have to leave the room every time their is a test. The article also discusses how these devices help children who are hearing impaired. While reading a story the child can follow along with reading the words on the device instead of just trying to listen and have trouble understanding. Mp3 players allow the teacher to record lessons and stories so that a child with autism or a cognitive delay can replay these lessons and stories to fully understand them.
I agree with christina. These devices/tools are creating a bridge between children with disabilities and children without. If a child with a disability is having trouble communicating with another child they can use these devices to help them communicate what they are trying to say and vice versa.
Marissa,
I agree with you and Christina that technology devices can help create a bridge between children with disabilities and without. Plus the use of these devices can help with the students disabilities and therefore make the student more comfortable in class. This would give schools more of a positive environment to all students.
This article discusses and explains that technology is such an important tool and how it how it can be adaptive in the classroom. It can also be used to meet the needs of particular students. Students use technology everyday and for many students it helps them in their academic performance. . This type of technology gives them with the tools they have to have to communicate as well as being able to make their own decisions which gives people the ability to do things there weren't unable to do. Technology is a skill that once it is taught it is a great tool to use and allows task to be more simple. Being able to express wants and needs is what makes adaptive technology so important. My classroom 5 out of 6 of my children are on a device because they are non verbal. They use this adaptive technology like an iPAD or a Nova Chat to communicate every want and need. They are able to express their feelings just like a child who is verbal. It is important to adapt to all your students needs especially when they have a disability that hinders their learning.
This article provided great insight about the various types of adaptive/assistive technology available to students with disabilities. Providing students with technology that can enhance their learning experience is essential. However, as the article mentions and as I have seen in my own school, these types of technology can be very expensive and therefore hard to get. I think that there needs to be a way for all students to get the appropriate technology that they need in order to be successful academically and socially.
Some of the types of technology that I thought would be useful in my own classroom are the Smart Table and the text reader. I am fortunate enough right now to have a Smart Board in my classroom that is used for many purposes daily. I think the smart table would be a great tool to have in my Kindergarten class for not only students with disabilities, but for all my students at this age because they are all working on fine motor skills. I think it would be great to have all the students sitting around it, working together. I also think that the text reader would be a great tool in my classroom because I have many kids who have English as their second language and therefore struggle with reading and writing. This text reader would provide them with the opportunity to communicate better.
Dana, I think it's great that you had the opportunity to see children working with the Smart Table. It seems like it was a great tool to help those students who really needed it!
In my Spanish classroom the mp3/iPod/iPhone tools can definitely be used in various ways to help my students with special needs as well as my general education students. Being able to hear a new language and practice it over and over again helps in memorizing the target language. With the use of the mp3 players and being able to record vocabulary and phrases they will be able to practice on their own time. One app that that can be downloaded into the mp3 players is iSpeak Spanish which translates from Spanish to English and English to Spanish. Not only will they be able to practice the target language in class but also in the comfort of their own home and be more confident when they speak the target language in class.
The article discusses many different types of adaptive technology that can be beneficial in the classroom. It is important to keep all students engaged in the classroom, especially those with disabilities or those who may need extra assistance with learning. I think that the interactive SMART table would be a great tool for the classroom. Being a math teacher, this type of interactive tool would be a great way to have students interact with math in an interactive way. I do have a SMART board in my room and this is a great way for students to get up and interact throughout class. The SMART board only allows students to come up one at a time. The SMART table would allow more than one person to interact at once and this could be very beneficial in the classroom. It is important to help all students be successful and having these tools would be a great way to help each student in the ways that they would need in order to do so.
Annemarie, I really like your idea about students using this adaptive technology in everyday life. It is easy to think that students can learn to use these tools in the classroom, but having this technology in everyday life would be a great benefit to these students as well. This could help students communicate and express their ideas in any type of setting.
I found this article to be eye-opening. The tools that are available for students today is miraculous. I myself have struggled with dyslexia and often have to look up the proper pronunciation of a word. YouTube comes in handing now-a-days, you can type in a word with "pronunciation" and you can hear the word pronounced on a video. This reading pen is fantastic. I have students who are below grade level readers, and this would help them when they get stuck on vocabulary. The SMART Table is another innovative tool. So many students, especially those growing up with Smart phones today, are tactical, visual, and kinesthetic learners. This tool allows the students to interact and be engaged in the learning material.
I really like the idea of having a smart table in the classroom. I feel that students can use this independently and if they are unable to read that it will pronounce words for them, helping the students sound our and recognize words. I do agree with the fact that students with a disability will benefit from using technology in the class but I do not think just because they can possibly use their device to take a test, means they do not have to leave the room. A lot of students with a disability become distracted very easily. This means the technology that the students are using will have to be checked to make sure that the students are understanding how to retrieve information. What I do like about the communication device part is that now a teacher needs to go through a long process to get a student a communication device, if all students were given devices as an extra tool this will only help promote learning in all students not just those who have a severe speech impairment.
I enjoyed reading this provided source and reading information surrounding the topics of adaptive technology in the classroom to help students with special needs. As a teacher, we have to have the ability to adapt quickly in the classroom to ensure that students of all academic types and learning abilities to achieve the same academic level of achievement as all the students. There were several different types of technology that were presented into the article that I found interesting and would definitely consider presenting to the classroom. Firstly, the idea of using the SmartTable in the classroom seemed like a development that could help mainstream students as well as special needs students as well. To me, I gathered that this piece of technology can be used as a tool to incorporate group activities in the classroom while at the same time assist my special needs students not only with accomplishing tasks successfully with this assisting technology that without it otherwise would have been impossible, but it gives them the opportunity to make the knowledge their own and research different things within the subject area that interests them. The common problem that I thought could possible arise is the possible level of distraction that this technology can bring about in the classroom as well. Though overwhelmingly beneficial, this technology could be distracting and possibly get the students off task.
As far as incorporating this assisting technology in the classroom to help my special needs students, I would involve it in such a way that includes the use of the technology in the classroom for everybody, so no individual is isolated to accomplish the task in a specific way, and the class works together as a team to accomplish their goals, while also helping my special education students. Through possible jigsaw activities as well as independent practice, the use of this technology can be deemed successful in the classroom.
Reading,” Technology Integration in K12 Education/Adaptive Technology in Special Education” I was very interested in the different types of technology that can be used in the classroom to help all students. Just by reading the first few paragraphs I learned the true definition of adaptive technology and that it is utilizing a tool or piece of equipment to augment and develop practical, useful and functional abilities for individuals with disabilities. Al though I have seen and use technology in the classroom, I had never thought about how technology could truly help a student who has special needs and cannot learn without them. I think learning more about the various technologies that teachers can utilize in the classroom such as the Smart Board, SMART Table, I pads, Reading Pens, Text Readers, Flip Page Turner and Dynavox was a great advantage because reading about each gave me an understanding of what exactly they were and how they could help students with special needs. One in particular that I could use in the classroom if I had students with special needs would be the Smart Table. Before reading this, I had never heard about this technology but because I see how effective the Smart Board is every day, using the Table would be an additional benefit for students. The SMART Table is a form of the Smart Board only it on a table instead of the wall. This would greatly benefit with fine gross motor skill problems as well as helping students socially by allowing them to interact and engage with other students. After reading more about it, I looked up a video on how the SMART Table is incorporated in the classroom. I found how it was used in a Pre-school class as well as at the high school level and in each video you could see how engaged the students were and how excited they were to be learning. I know that there are various other strategies that could benefit students with special needs, however if my school had the resources I think this could greatly help students with special needs as well as every other student in the class.
In response to Christopher:
I agree that is important that we incorporate technology in the classroom with students with special needs as an integral part of the lesson, rather than making the students using the technology feel isolated. I have seen how students with special needs are given an activity to do on the Ipad while the rest of the class is working on anther assignment. Although the student is benefiting from individualized attention and lesson plans, he/she notices and feels left out of the class conversation when witnessing what the other students are doing. I agree that having it as a group assignment is one positive way to help solve this problem.
It amazes me how far technology came; to be able to have technology in the classroom to help students excel in reaching their goals is amazing. There are advantages and disadvantages to everything ever created. I feel that overall, technology has more pros then cons, if technology can improve or change someone's life in a positive matter than that's what people should focus on. When I was in elementary school we had the chalkboard to learn from so seeing a Smartboard in almost every classroom now a days is terrific. The Smartboard saves times because the notes are already on the board, it engages the students with interactive learning and in my opinion adds life to the classroom. The other form of technology that I found to be truly outstanding was the Dynavox, imagine how those children with non-verbal disabilities feel when they're able to communicate with their teachers and classmates, to be able to participate and communicate during lessons is incredible in itself. This technology should be a need when it comes to teaching students with non- verbal Disabilites. It's truly incredible how life in the classroom has changed because of technology.
I found adaptive technology very interesting. I think it is amazing what technology can do. We don't hear much about technology that benefits students with special needs, and these types such as smart board, smart table, iPads, dynavox, flip page turners, amongst many others are outstanding. As a teacher, i would want to make sure that every student is included and has a way to understand and be interactive with the material that is being taught. It also allows the students to be independent learners and thinkers. I really like the smart table, it could be used in an group setting, it would also help them by being closer to them to see and use rather than the smart board. I found the Dynavox intriguing. It looks like an iPad, that students can attach to a computer, so that they can communicate, play, and learn. Specifically the Eyemax, which tracks the eye movements on the screen and how many blinks the eye makes, and the computer responds as if you were clicking a mouse. I personally believe the best benefit of adaptive technology would be if the school can afford and apply these technologies to classrooms, the students with special needs should be able to have the parents sign the piece out and be able to use it at home as well so the parents can learn, and the students can have better use of it. I liked a point that the author made that the revolution of adaptive technology, that students that do not have special needs will also benefit from using them. And the common use of both groups of people would offer a way for students with or without disabilities to see that they are no different from each other; but they each have needs that can be met by similar means. I wish they had workshops on the adaptive technology because i would love to see how they work in person and i really wish that schools, PTA, districts, etc, could afford and fund this, because it will benefit students with or without special needs by enhancing their disabilities, the social gap, and empower them in life and education. This was one article, that truly showed how technology can change the classroom.
This article discusses adaptive and assistive technology tools that are useful for instruction in an inclusive classroom. Though I am not a Special Education teacher there is a high probability some of my students will need special help and this information is invaluable. The tools I will likely use are SMART Board, IPad/Ipod/Iphone/Mp3 Players, Flip page turner, and Text reader. All of this technology can really help students that are unable to perform tasks in much easier ways. The student that is unable to hold a book will use Flip Page Turner. The student that has reading and writing disabilities can use Text Reader. SMART Board can be used for all students and allows a visual learner to grasp information much easier. iPad etc. can be used in several ways. Students with and without disabilities are able to use this technology to interact with what they are learning. Students are able to be mobile with use of the iPod/ipad where as 10 years ago they had to sit in a computer lab.
reply to Annemarie;
It was very interesting and informative to read about your daily experience with students with autism. I have not had the same experience and would not have known how wildly used assistive technology is used. It is great that these students are not only able to learn better but they also are able to express themselves in ways they never have before.
This article discusses adaptive and assistive technology useful for instruction in an inclusion classroom. In my three years teaching I have come across one student who has used assistive technology (computer) in the classroom. With this one student I have mixed feelings with the use of the technology. I find that in some cases he is better able to complete activities and grasp information in the classroom. But in other instances I fnd that he is distracted by the technology and unable to complete assignments given to him. This article discusses one adaptive and assistive technology tool that I think could be useful useful for the student that has reading and writing disabilities can use Text Reader. In addition most classrooms have the use of SMART technology like the SMART Board which can be used for all students and allows a visual learner to grasp information much easier. Technology can be a great resource when used correctly and depending on each individual student.
This article is an incredible information source on the types of technology that can be used in a special education setting. In my own experience, I have learned a lot about technology in terms of the general ed classroom but not much regarding special education students. I am most familiar with the SMARTboard and think I would be able to more easily include that technology into a lesson plan. However, I am enthusiastic about being able to try any of the other devices described in the article, if my school has the resources to provide them. I was especially interested in the Dynavox and the use of EyeMax technology. I think it is incredible that schools can offer this type of technology to its students these days.
I really liked the suggestion that Shana had, about allowing parents to sign out technology so that they can use it at home and become more familiar with it. I think that can only encourage parents and help them feel more secure about their child's education.
It is amazing what technology can do for people. This article has really opened my mind as to how it can change the lives of people with special needs. Technology can increase their learning tremendously by making them more independent. I would definitely like to use a SMARTboard in my classroom. A SMARTboard allows you to use images to help students with cognitive delay. I would like to use the Reading Pen with my students. For students with reading delays or vision impairments, it will allow them to listen to the words that are on the screen rather than having to read it themselves. I think that a Reading Pen would allow my students to be more independent with assignments which will give them the confidence to tackle math problems on their own.
In response to Briana: I agree that SMARTboards are an amzing tool to use in a classroom. It is something that can assist the learning of students with special needs as well as typical learners in the classroom. It saves time allowing the teacher to get through the material with ease and leaves them enough time to answer questions that students may have.
This article offers a bunch of different ways techonolgoy can be benefitical to the class as a whole along with students with special needs. Having a SMARTboard enables the students to visualize parts of the lesson along with interact and be a part of the lesson which keeps them engaged. My classroom is a filled with a variety of different types of students with IEPS and 504s and the SMARTboard helps them all dramatically. Our SMARTboard has actually been down for last 3 days and I never noticed how much of a help it was until now. All the math lessons and reading lessons and books are all online. Due to this, the students are used to listening to the story as well as seeing it on the screen. Having to read a regular sized book to them was a lot harder then I thought. All they were saying was, " I cant see the picture" "what did you say" "why is the picture so small" they weren't understanding the book and were more focused on why we were using a real book rather than the SMARTboard (which is how todays classrooms are due to the amazing technology). Times like these make you realize how valuable and helpful technology can be to all types of learners. While the story is being read online, I would sit with the table of students that basically need my help one-to-one in order to follow along and complete an activity. While I was reading the book, no one was there to help them and they were soon lost and not paying attention. Technology is a great advance in todays education world but its also not always the most reliable.
This article included many great technology tools that should be incorporated into the classroom, especially when working with students who have special needs. Technology is extremely important in today's day in age because it surrounds the current generation both in school and out of schools. As students are extremely comfortable using technology, it is important for teachers to include different tools that use technology in order to interest the students and make learning more active, through exploration. One of the tools that stood out to me the most in this article was the SMARTboard. The SMARTboard is a technology tool that most all classrooms have in my own school. It is used for every subject, where students make the lesson more interactive as they are given opportunities to participate using the SMARTboard at various times in the lesson. Recently, our computer crashed which ultimately affected the use of our SMARTboard. Similar to what Nicolette stated above, my class is very reliant on the SMARTboard. We had to alter our instructions and use paper assignment and tasks which upset the students. They thoroughly enjoy using the smart board technology as it allows them to interact and learn in a more motivating way. The smart board is great for students with special needs because it gives them the opportunity as well to participate using enlarged texts, interactive videos, and matching games throughout instructions. They feel apart of the class, and are not receiving a differentiated task sheet, which sometimes upsets those students as they are aware that they have different tasks than the other students in our class. The SMARTboard, along with the other technological tools listed in the article are great tools that should definitely be used in classrooms to promote positive learning, in an interactive and high-tech manner.
In response to Nicolette: As mentioned above, my classroom experienced something similar when our computer crashed and we were unable to use the SMARTboard for a few days. Similar to your experience, it was very interesting to see how much of a difference it makes when the SMARTboard is not in use. Students are less active and become frustrated that they cannot "see certain visuals" that a small book portrays in comparison to the enlarged text on the board. I agree that technology is a great advance in today's education and it should be continued to be used. But we also must be careful, since it is not always reliant, there always needs to be a backup plan.
The article “Technology Integration in K12 Education/Adaptive Technology in Special Education” was extremely helpful in learning about the variety of adaptive and assistive technology tools that could be used in inclusive classrooms. Personally, I would integrate the use of the SMARTboard into my lessons, as well as into my daily practice if I had a student with special needs. My past experiences with the SMARTboard, during student teaching and now at work, have been all positive when it came to integrating the tool in my lessons and daily practice. I believe the SMARTboard is an effective way to motivate students to participate in lessons, as well as allows them to interact with their work. It is extremely helpful for the teacher because it allows them to create notes to display at another time, as well as save the notes from day to day as needed, rather than constantly erasing notes as you go. The SMARTboard also provides a visual component to teacher’s instruction which can be used as a beneficial tool for students who are visual learners. My familiarity with using a SMARTboard makes it easier to include into any lesson plan, as well as more likely to incorporate into my instruction.
In response to Shannon: I agree that I am to enthusiastic to being able to expand my familiarity with other adaptive and assistive technological tools into my instruction, such as the tools included in this article.
If I had students in my classroom with disabilities which prohibit them from communicating, I would try to provide them with a Dynavox computer. This augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) device helps students to communicate, play, and learn. The device can provide different communication situations for the students, such as face-to-face conversations, text messaging, and e-mail. A new product from Dynavox is the EyeMax device that assists students with gross motor disabilities. If the student can not move their hands or arms, EyeMax allows him/her to use their eyes to control the device and communicate. It tracks the student’s eye movements on the screen and with a code for how many blinks the person does the computer responds as if he/she were clicking with a mouse. Using this technology in my classroom would be a daily necessity for students with special needs since it may be the only way he/she can communicate with myself, other teachers, and peers.
Technology is a great reliable resource teachers and students can use within the classroom setting. In this article, it talks about different technology tools that would be helpful within the classroom that includes a student with special needs. A specific tool I would use for a student with a special need would be the smart table. The smart table is used to help students build upon their fine motor skills. The smart table allows them to interact by having a touch surface. This touch surface lets more than one student work on the table at a time. The teacher can program it with different settings. The idea of have a table where students can sit around and physically interact within the lesson is a great idea. It also helps if a student is shy and doesn't enjoy standing in front of the class. With the table, everyone is sitting around and interacting. I would use this with a student if they needed to build upon their fine motor skills. They would be using their fine motor muscles and learning at the same time.
Response: I agree with Nicolette, the smart board is extremely beneficial in the classroom. It is a great source for visuals and motivations. Students are extra engaged when they see we will be using the smart board to answer questions, they all want a chance to write on the board.
Integrating technology is a major key in learning for students and teachers. Technology is important because it allows the needs for Kinesthetic learners to be met as well as keeping students engaged. It can be seen as a privilege for most students which is why they take much pride and involvement the second they have the opportunity to do so. This article discusses the variety of adaptive and assistive technology tools that could be used in inclusive classrooms. It is important that technology is used in inclusion classrooms because it allows those who are unable to communicate the opportunity to do so through the I-pads. Some students are unable to use their hands due to their disability and technology allows them to engage in class more often. There is voice recognition which allows students to use the applications even if they are unable to hold an I-pad. One of my favorite pieces of technology is the smart table because it allows the students to work in groups and have other students motivate them in wanting to learn.
This article was extremely informative. There are so many great advantages to adaptive and assistive technology. I believe that giving a student with disabilities independence is so important; this will really help them in their learning environment. Some of the tools I think I would use in my classroom would be the smart table; I think this would be a great tool to increase cooperative learning in the classroom. I would also use the smart board after learning how to make interactive games this semester and seeing it in the classroom this is definitely something that I am going to spend more time learning about to better myself in the long run. I also like the idea of having a reading pen in my classroom; I think this is a great tool for a child who may have a reading comprehension problem. I too like Shannon and Alexa am enthusiastic about familiarizing myself with other adaptive and assistive technological tools and incorporating them into my instruction.
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