Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Blog Post #13

List 5 Assistive Technologies that can be used in the Special Education classroom. Explain how a child can use them during class. Include source or sources that were used.

1. Speech recognition software: this technology converts talking into typing, making it easy for children struggling with movement or visual conditions that find it tough to use a keyboard. Ex. This can be used for a child that is blind for writing an assignment on the computer. The child can say what he or she wants written.
2. Talking calculators: this gadget relates mathematics via audio. This can help with visually impaired and learning disabled students. Ex. During math class a student that has a learning disability or is visually impaired, can use this tool to check previous math problems or use it to work math problems.
3. Switches: switches are usually attached to the hand. They allow students access to computer controls instead of using the mouse or a keyboard. They come in different structures to provide the best fit for each individual. Ex. A student with cognitive impairments can use this device to work a computer during an assignment.
4. Audiobooks: books that read the story aloud. This is not a new form of assistive technology but it will always be used. Ex. For students that have trouble reading, he or she can read along with the audiobook that reads aloud.
5. Ipads: small touchscreen computer. I always knew that Ipads were a popular tool in the special education world but after reading this post I knew they will become a must in my classroom. “I had a students with Cerebral Palsy who only has proficient access to one finger. The Ipad comes along and in 35 minutes after opening it from the box, he wrote his name for the first time.” This is so touching and uplifting. Ex. Ipads can be used for anything. As we read a second ago it can be used for writing, or learning games in apps during any subject.

Sources:1-4 5

Ipad

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