A place for teachers and other providers of special education services to support each other, share information, and discuss topics, including assessment.
Special Ed Students and Technology Integration
I was surprised to learn how supportive my administration was to integrate technology in special ed. language Arts classes. I work with students with autism and learning disabilities. Certainly, this would be a great adventure for all of us.
With all of the excitement of using smart devices in schools, my students were hesitant in touching our recently purchased iPad Minis. Many of my students didn't have any experience withsmart devices.
I came to realize that those with sensory issues didn't want to touch the glass. Other students were skeptical that the devices would actually help them.
I brought my iPad to class and demonstated the initial hand gestures. Opening a file and closing a file seemed a good place to start. In 20 minutes, students were touching the glass and opening files and closing files.
At times we assume students love all technological devices, expecially in education. It simply isn't the case. However, skills need to be developed and the adventure of learning is just as important and the journey itself.
in my class, the level of skeptisism is decreasing and the level of acceptance is increasing. We are off to a great start.
Comments (2)
Comment RSSSign in or register to post comments
1:1 ipad in my SDC
I too teach children with high functioning Autism and it has now been about 6 months since they were introduced to the iPads. It has been an amazing experience and they are thriving. Their level of motivation, time on task, confidence and creativity are shining through. I have been a SDC teacher for over 20 years. The iPads have definitely changed the landscape of my classroom and my teaching!
Debbie Rice
Our school provides every
Our school provides every student with a netbook for use on a daily basis. It is great for communicating, giving tests, and instant access to the web. The difficulty at times is the filtering of inappropriate websites and constant social emailing. When certain requirements such as grades, attendance and behavior are met by there senior year the netbook is theirs to keep.