Assistive technology can assist students in overcoming barriers and impairments in the access of general education curriculum. It is important to recognize that there are a variety of disabilities, thus, technologies must be developed to assist students who possess one or more of those disabilities. Assistive technologies can come in very "high" forms or they can be simple "low" use tools that can be used within the classroom. Such as in my school placement in a first-grade classroom, students use an array of differing assistive technologies throughout the day. From pencil grips, Chromebook, to the Smartboard, and even noise-reducing headphones for an audible means of learning in lessons provides students the opportunity to thrive in the class.
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Students must be able to interact and feel a sense of belonging within the classroom. Students that do not have the abilities to participate fully in the learning and social environment must have the means accessible to them in order to connect meaningfully with their peers. Engagement of students is crucial for extending the level of learning and progress throughout children's education. For this reason, Assistive technologies allows students with disabilities and/or varying needs to design communication, teach life skills, and increase their social and academic learning. ![]() Common Sense allows educators, parents, and kids explore their website for a vast amount of topics and materials that everyone can watch and learn on the site. They offer websites, movies, books, and even apps that can engage children for all types of interactions in their environment. Parents are even provided information on the websites that their children may use daily throughout their adolescence. You can learn more information and explore the website by clicking link above. APP EXAMPLE : Class Dojo is a fun interactive app that engages all parties in the learning environment to share their experiences throughout the school year. Peers, parents, and teachers in the classroom can upload their achievements and progress that they have accomplished inside the classroom and outside as well. Parents and teachers are able to communicate easily through the messaging tab along in the app for any questions regarding their child. The app also encourages student participation, rewards, and feedback by giving students points. It's accessible on many platforms, including Smartboard, and it's even free! Check out the link below for more information: ~ https://www.classdojo.com/#LearnMore Voice Output device![]() Students that are functioning below their grade level, limited in vocabulary, soft spoken, or playing on their own could possibly benefit from this functional device. The voice output allows students with disabilities to push a button, so students are able to choose their needs and wants. The tool has a range of options and can be used not only in the classroom, but also at home. Through the voice output students are able to construct structural sentences or words by selecting the commands, so students are able to interact with their peers during the school day. Check out the link to see how voice output devices can benefit in the classroom: ~ https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C87ZtqOSjls ![]() People who have trouble with mobility can benefit great from the use of assistive technologies. Wheelchairs, walkers, crutches, or prosthetic devices make it easier for people with mobility impairments to transport and perform their daily living activities. Moreover, AT can be a simpler form of a "low" tech gadget. Nevertheless, these devices and gadgets helps individuals to become more independent in their daily living Pencil Holders : Pencil holders can come in various shapes, sizes, and textures. They give students a larger and more supported means to hold the pencil for pencil-and-paper tasks. It allows for students to write more comfortably and prevent the student from becoming fatigue in his or her grip while writing, especially students with fine motor skills. Whether a student whom has cerebral palsy and has difficulty grasping the pencil, or a student who needs assistance in their handwriting, pencil holders are great additions for students of differing needs. ![]() Leg Braces : For students with mobility that are limited due to a variety of reason whether it be disease, birth defects, or injuries; students will need extra assistance and time moving throughout the school day. Leg braces helps to stabilize individuals as the move to interact in their daily activities. Although some braces may cause fatigue from overuse, it allows for students to interact with their peers, as well as, perform the same tasks. Children with disabilities can feel more included in the classroom and in their environment being able to walk (with assistance) as their peers. Assistive technologies even implements play into action for students with disabilities. Through recreation and play, students with disabilities are included in the same activities as their peers engaging them in a better way of life. The needs of the students are recognized throughout the school and are provided opportunities to learn and benefit from their typically developing peers. Students are able to explore their interests and enjoy board games, sport activities, or any event that make them become involved in their environment. Switches: Allows for individuals to access an array of abilities through a "button" and can be adapted for toys and games. Switches are a guide for people with motor skill problems to be more independent in their tasks. There is an access for communication devices, computer softwares, and even on some mobile devices. They come in a variety of forms from small-or-large buttons, sip/puff, or foot-switches depending on the individual's impairment. Whichever the form, switches permit individuals with disabilities to engage and participate in activities. Such as, a battery-operated toy connecting to a switch device and the child being able to play on his/her own or with their peers/family. For more information check out the links below :
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Bhj5vs9P5cw - http://oregonisp.org/at/tag/switches/ |
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