My first AT demonstrattion with a low-tech device - the Kitchen Ruler and Oven Rack Push-Puller.
This is the second demonstration on a medium-tech device - a Unisonic Picture Phone
Tuesday, June 15, 2010
Saturday, June 12, 2010
One Thumb, so Much Inspiration
The following was written after viewing the video "One Thumb to Rule Them All"
We know that technology is excellent for entertainment purposes. We also know it is extremely useful for communication purposes. We even use technology to further our knowledge of what we already know. However, we sometimes fail to realize that technology can be the only way for someone to survive. Or, we may forget that technology can help someone learn much more than anyone thought capable. Unless we are faced with someone with a disability everyday, we may never fully understand how technology allows them to access the same world we do.
From the short video “One Thumb to Rule Them All,” we see how Mike Phillips uses technology. Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Mike has to use his thumb to access something we take for granted, our computers. He uses his thumb to manipulate a switch that allows him to type, play games, and continue with the things he wishes to do. For example, his switch allows him to work on his writing and gaming. We also saw how he used his voice to access iTunes. These things that we do so easily without a second thought, may not have been available to Mike if it were not for assistive technology.
We see here that assistive technology can drastically change the life of an individual with a disability. Ages ago, someone like Mike may have just been put in a room and left to stare at the walls all day. Now, we have technology that is useful. Available to us and those with disabilities are so many things that can allow someone to become independent with a disability. As a future educator, this is great news to me, because it means I can teach all my students. With the help of assistive technology, we are giving students an opportunity to succeed that may not have been given in different times. Also, assistive technology allows us to see just what someone with a disability is capable of.
Now, it may be daunting for a teacher to create a lesson plan using assistive technology. However, all they need to do is become familiar with the tool and the student using it. Assistive technology is not meant to give a teacher extra work or babysit a student. It is meant to allow that student to be included in the classroom and activities. Also, assistive technology may assist students in social interactions with peers and adults. This, as we know is important in life.
When it comes to using assistive technology in the classroom, it is important to assess it first. You would not want to use a device that will not help a student at all. As stated earlier, it is crucial to get to know the student and their needs in order to implement a successful and useful device. This process is one that can be done by teachers, parents, administrators, and an entire IEP team. By collaborating, it is easier to get the information needed and provide assistance to the student right away. Also, teachers cannot do everything on their own and should rely on IEP teams for some things.
We know that technology is excellent for entertainment purposes. We also know it is extremely useful for communication purposes. We even use technology to further our knowledge of what we already know. However, we sometimes fail to realize that technology can be the only way for someone to survive. Or, we may forget that technology can help someone learn much more than anyone thought capable. Unless we are faced with someone with a disability everyday, we may never fully understand how technology allows them to access the same world we do.
From the short video “One Thumb to Rule Them All,” we see how Mike Phillips uses technology. Born with spinal muscular atrophy, Mike has to use his thumb to access something we take for granted, our computers. He uses his thumb to manipulate a switch that allows him to type, play games, and continue with the things he wishes to do. For example, his switch allows him to work on his writing and gaming. We also saw how he used his voice to access iTunes. These things that we do so easily without a second thought, may not have been available to Mike if it were not for assistive technology.
We see here that assistive technology can drastically change the life of an individual with a disability. Ages ago, someone like Mike may have just been put in a room and left to stare at the walls all day. Now, we have technology that is useful. Available to us and those with disabilities are so many things that can allow someone to become independent with a disability. As a future educator, this is great news to me, because it means I can teach all my students. With the help of assistive technology, we are giving students an opportunity to succeed that may not have been given in different times. Also, assistive technology allows us to see just what someone with a disability is capable of.
Now, it may be daunting for a teacher to create a lesson plan using assistive technology. However, all they need to do is become familiar with the tool and the student using it. Assistive technology is not meant to give a teacher extra work or babysit a student. It is meant to allow that student to be included in the classroom and activities. Also, assistive technology may assist students in social interactions with peers and adults. This, as we know is important in life.
When it comes to using assistive technology in the classroom, it is important to assess it first. You would not want to use a device that will not help a student at all. As stated earlier, it is crucial to get to know the student and their needs in order to implement a successful and useful device. This process is one that can be done by teachers, parents, administrators, and an entire IEP team. By collaborating, it is easier to get the information needed and provide assistance to the student right away. Also, teachers cannot do everything on their own and should rely on IEP teams for some things.
Resources, Resources, Resources
Below are fifteen resources found all about assistive technology. Enjoy!
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEVICE WEBSITES
EnableMart,
http://www.enablemart.com/
This website is an online store for people to purchase assistive technology devices. There are different categories to choose from, such as vision, communication, switches, and so many more. Once you have found the item or items you are looking for, you can click on it for more information. You can view the description, specs, reviews, and related items. Also, you can choose the quantity you wish to purchase. You can order as a guest or, create an account. EnableMart accepts most major credit cards, and there is a number for customers to call should they have any questions.
SDDL – Teaching All Students, Reaching All Learners, Including Students with Disabilities as Diverse Learners,
http://www.ist.hawaii.edu/training/tech/index.php
This website is one that is extremely useful. I feel that it gives a complete and comprehensive overview of assistive technology. Not only does is give a definition of assistive technology, but it explains how to use technology before it gives more information. Also, it has three categories of explaining types of assistive technology. Here, these types are low-tech, specialized high-tech, and universal high-tech. While searching these pages for information, you can easily go to the next or previous pages by clicking ‘Previous’ or ‘Next.’ Or, if you wish to return to the main menu, you can easily click ‘Assistive Technology Menu’ and explore from there.
AbleData,
http://www.abledata.com/abledata.cfm
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEVICE WEBSITES
EnableMart,
http://www.enablemart.com/
This website is an online store for people to purchase assistive technology devices. There are different categories to choose from, such as vision, communication, switches, and so many more. Once you have found the item or items you are looking for, you can click on it for more information. You can view the description, specs, reviews, and related items. Also, you can choose the quantity you wish to purchase. You can order as a guest or, create an account. EnableMart accepts most major credit cards, and there is a number for customers to call should they have any questions.
SDDL – Teaching All Students, Reaching All Learners, Including Students with Disabilities as Diverse Learners,
http://www.ist.hawaii.edu/training/tech/index.php
This website is one that is extremely useful. I feel that it gives a complete and comprehensive overview of assistive technology. Not only does is give a definition of assistive technology, but it explains how to use technology before it gives more information. Also, it has three categories of explaining types of assistive technology. Here, these types are low-tech, specialized high-tech, and universal high-tech. While searching these pages for information, you can easily go to the next or previous pages by clicking ‘Previous’ or ‘Next.’ Or, if you wish to return to the main menu, you can easily click ‘Assistive Technology Menu’ and explore from there.
AbleData,
http://www.abledata.com/abledata.cfm
AbleData is a website that lists different types of assistive technology. Also, it gives you descriptions of the technology. There are 20 different categories for a person to choose from. However AbleData does not sell the products featured on their website. But they, can help find a location and information of where you can purchase one. For example, there is information for information centers, conferences, companies by state, international resources, and links for organizations and companies. The mailing information and contact number for AbleData is available on the website as well.
ATTO: Assistive Technology Training Online,
http://atto.buffalo.edu/
The ATTO website is excellent! It gives what I feel is an abundance of information on assistive technology. This website offers basic information, tutorials, resources, and a decision-making process to follow when choosing an AT device. The tutorials on the website give brief information on the device, and then tell you how to use it. For example, I clicked on Draw a Snowflake in the Microsoft Word tutorial. It opened a document and listed, were step-by-step rules on how to draw a snowflake in Microsoft Word. This website also offers other sites that do AT tutorials if you cannot find what you are looking for on ATTO’s website.
Types of Assistive Technology Products,
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/types.aspx
This website form Microsoft, lists types of assistive technology products. Also, they give brief descriptions of each device listed. This website is easy to navigate, because they have each assistive technology device in bold letters, allowing a reader to know when they are viewing a different device. On this page, there is also a link to help an individual find the right assistive technology for them. Available, is the Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers link. I like this website, because it is straight to the point.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ORGANIZATIONS
Alliance for Technology Access,
http://www.ataccess.org/
This organization is not only for those needing assistive technology, but for educators, technology developers, and families as well. It is not only a national organization, but an international one as well. The ATA has a group of technology resource centers, community-based organizations, agencies, individuals, and companies. People may become members of the ATA, whether they are individuals, companies, or non-profit assistive technology centers. The ATA also provides e-learning for consumers and professionals. There are meeting rooms, training, webinars, and so much more offered by the ATA on their website.
Closing The Gap,
http://www.closingthegap.com/
This organization was founded by parents of a child with a disability. Closing The Gap offers a bimonthly magazine, along with an annual international conference, and its extensive web site. This organization focuses a lot on computers and software as assistive technology. This organization also offers webinars on its website. However, there is limited space and you must pay for them. This organization does seem helpful.
DREAMMS for Kids,
http://www.dreamms.org/
DREAMMS for Kids is an organization founded by parents of a child with Down syndrome. DREAMMS stands for Developmental Research for the Effective Advancement of Memory and Motor Skills. This organization has been around for 22 years. They are aimed at the use of technology not only in schools, but in the home and workplaces as well. This shows that this organization is not only for students, but for any person with a disability needing assistive technology devices. On the DREAMMS website, they offer many other resources such as organizations and government resources. There is also a note at then end of the homepage that DREAMMS is there to help anyone in need when it comes to assistive technology.
Assistive Technology industry Association,
http://atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1
The ATIA stands for the Assistive Technology Industry Association. It is an organization for those who make, sell, and provide AT devices. They work closely with businesses, education systems, and other establishments where assistive technology is used and/or needed. ATIA also hosts annual conferences, forums and workshops. On the ATIA website, they list resources for people such as publications and links. Also, there is a link for those who wish to become members.
Center for Accessible Technology,
http://www.cforat.org/
The Center for Accessible Technology, or CforAT, is an organization that puts emphasis on computer use for individuals with disabilities. This organization works with any individuals with disabilities directly. Also, they provide training on assistive technology to school staff. On their website, CforAT lists different programs they provide. They even have them categorized by students, adults, and so on. CforAT’s website also provides a link to the California Digital Inclusion Program (CDIP), which offers support for companies and organizations.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH ARTICLES
Assistive Technology for Kids With LD: An Overview
Raskind, M., Stanberry, K.
Great Schools
http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/assistive-technology-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities-an-overview.gs?content=702
This article, is about assistive technology and how it can benefit children with learning disabilities. The authors explain what AT means for learning disabilities and how assistive technology addresses learning disability problems. For example, assistive technology can aide a student with a learning disability in the subject of math. Also they offer a list of some assistive technology devices that aide students with learning disabilities. Some of these devices include portable word processors, talking calculators, graphic organizers, and many more. At the end of the article, there are related articles offered.
Assistive Technology for Students with Mild Disabilities
Behrmann, M.M.
ERIC EC Digest #529
Special Education Resources
http://parentpals.com/goassamer/pages/Detailed/910.html
This article focuses a lot on how we can apply assistive technology in instruction. There are seven areas stated in this article. They are: organization, note taking, writing assistance, productivity, access to reference materials, cognitive assistance, and materials modification. Before reading this article, I was not sure how assistive technology would help with productivity. After I read this article, I realized that when we use spreadsheets to keep track of anything, we are focusing on productivity. Although this article is dated, I still found it to be useful.
Assistive Devices Help Challenged Kids Get the Most From Learning
Carlin-Steele, S.
Education World®
Education World
http://www.educationworld.com/a_teach/tech/tech086.shtml
This article begins with explaining what assistive devices are. Also, they list some high-tech devices. The article also discusses Assistive Technologies, Inc., which was founded by a person who has been paralyzed from the waist down since age 26. They go on to say that this company provides assistive devices to schools and individuals. Also included in the article are devices that are used in the classroom. Carlin-Steele also goes on to discuss if there are downfalls to assistive technology. According to her the downside comes when no one knows how to use the technology.
Assistive Technology for Children with Autism
Stokes, S.
ATTO: Assistive Technology Training Online,
http://atto.buffalo.edu/
The ATTO website is excellent! It gives what I feel is an abundance of information on assistive technology. This website offers basic information, tutorials, resources, and a decision-making process to follow when choosing an AT device. The tutorials on the website give brief information on the device, and then tell you how to use it. For example, I clicked on Draw a Snowflake in the Microsoft Word tutorial. It opened a document and listed, were step-by-step rules on how to draw a snowflake in Microsoft Word. This website also offers other sites that do AT tutorials if you cannot find what you are looking for on ATTO’s website.
Types of Assistive Technology Products,
http://www.microsoft.com/enable/at/types.aspx
This website form Microsoft, lists types of assistive technology products. Also, they give brief descriptions of each device listed. This website is easy to navigate, because they have each assistive technology device in bold letters, allowing a reader to know when they are viewing a different device. On this page, there is also a link to help an individual find the right assistive technology for them. Available, is the Microsoft Accessibility Resource Centers link. I like this website, because it is straight to the point.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY ORGANIZATIONS
Alliance for Technology Access,
http://www.ataccess.org/
This organization is not only for those needing assistive technology, but for educators, technology developers, and families as well. It is not only a national organization, but an international one as well. The ATA has a group of technology resource centers, community-based organizations, agencies, individuals, and companies. People may become members of the ATA, whether they are individuals, companies, or non-profit assistive technology centers. The ATA also provides e-learning for consumers and professionals. There are meeting rooms, training, webinars, and so much more offered by the ATA on their website.
Closing The Gap,
http://www.closingthegap.com/
This organization was founded by parents of a child with a disability. Closing The Gap offers a bimonthly magazine, along with an annual international conference, and its extensive web site. This organization focuses a lot on computers and software as assistive technology. This organization also offers webinars on its website. However, there is limited space and you must pay for them. This organization does seem helpful.
DREAMMS for Kids,
http://www.dreamms.org/
DREAMMS for Kids is an organization founded by parents of a child with Down syndrome. DREAMMS stands for Developmental Research for the Effective Advancement of Memory and Motor Skills. This organization has been around for 22 years. They are aimed at the use of technology not only in schools, but in the home and workplaces as well. This shows that this organization is not only for students, but for any person with a disability needing assistive technology devices. On the DREAMMS website, they offer many other resources such as organizations and government resources. There is also a note at then end of the homepage that DREAMMS is there to help anyone in need when it comes to assistive technology.
Assistive Technology industry Association,
http://atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=1
The ATIA stands for the Assistive Technology Industry Association. It is an organization for those who make, sell, and provide AT devices. They work closely with businesses, education systems, and other establishments where assistive technology is used and/or needed. ATIA also hosts annual conferences, forums and workshops. On the ATIA website, they list resources for people such as publications and links. Also, there is a link for those who wish to become members.
Center for Accessible Technology,
http://www.cforat.org/
The Center for Accessible Technology, or CforAT, is an organization that puts emphasis on computer use for individuals with disabilities. This organization works with any individuals with disabilities directly. Also, they provide training on assistive technology to school staff. On their website, CforAT lists different programs they provide. They even have them categorized by students, adults, and so on. CforAT’s website also provides a link to the California Digital Inclusion Program (CDIP), which offers support for companies and organizations.
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY RESEARCH ARTICLES
Assistive Technology for Kids With LD: An Overview
Raskind, M., Stanberry, K.
Great Schools
http://www.greatschools.org/special-education/assistive-technology/assistive-technology-for-kids-with-learning-disabilities-an-overview.gs?content=702
This article, is about assistive technology and how it can benefit children with learning disabilities. The authors explain what AT means for learning disabilities and how assistive technology addresses learning disability problems. For example, assistive technology can aide a student with a learning disability in the subject of math. Also they offer a list of some assistive technology devices that aide students with learning disabilities. Some of these devices include portable word processors, talking calculators, graphic organizers, and many more. At the end of the article, there are related articles offered.
Assistive Technology for Students with Mild Disabilities
Behrmann, M.M.
ERIC EC Digest #529
Special Education Resources
http://parentpals.com/goassamer/pages/Detailed/910.html
This article focuses a lot on how we can apply assistive technology in instruction. There are seven areas stated in this article. They are: organization, note taking, writing assistance, productivity, access to reference materials, cognitive assistance, and materials modification. Before reading this article, I was not sure how assistive technology would help with productivity. After I read this article, I realized that when we use spreadsheets to keep track of anything, we are focusing on productivity. Although this article is dated, I still found it to be useful.
Assistive Devices Help Challenged Kids Get the Most From Learning
Carlin-Steele, S.
Education World®
Education World
http://www.educationworld.com/a_teach/tech/tech086.shtml
This article begins with explaining what assistive devices are. Also, they list some high-tech devices. The article also discusses Assistive Technologies, Inc., which was founded by a person who has been paralyzed from the waist down since age 26. They go on to say that this company provides assistive devices to schools and individuals. Also included in the article are devices that are used in the classroom. Carlin-Steele also goes on to discuss if there are downfalls to assistive technology. According to her the downside comes when no one knows how to use the technology.
Assistive Technology for Children with Autism
Stokes, S.
This article focuses on how children with autism benefit from assistive technology. At first glance, it is easy to see that this article focuses on a number of skills affected by autism. Also, the author broke down the technology into low-tech, mid-tech, and high-tech devices. In each section, the author discusses some types of theses devices and how they are used for children with autism. The author has also listed the prices for some of these devices. To make the article easier to read, the author also broke down the low-, mid-, and high-tech into which skills they focus on improving. This article is very useful to both parents and educators.
Technology Puts More Pupils in the Mainstream
Batog, J.
The Boston Globe
http://www.boston.com/news/education/k_12/articles/2008/04/21/technology_puts_more_pupils_in_the_mainstream/
This article was written for The Boston Globe. It talks about how universal design and the use of technology has affected students with disabilities. Also, it talks about how much technology has made the classroom more accessible. Not only is it accessible in means of learning, but also mobility. The author also interviewed someone that emphasized how important it is to know the right tools to use with your students so everyone can be successful. I find this article to be useful for parents and especially educators.
Technology Puts More Pupils in the Mainstream
Batog, J.
The Boston Globe
http://www.boston.com/news/education/k_12/articles/2008/04/21/technology_puts_more_pupils_in_the_mainstream/
This article was written for The Boston Globe. It talks about how universal design and the use of technology has affected students with disabilities. Also, it talks about how much technology has made the classroom more accessible. Not only is it accessible in means of learning, but also mobility. The author also interviewed someone that emphasized how important it is to know the right tools to use with your students so everyone can be successful. I find this article to be useful for parents and especially educators.
Sunday, June 6, 2010
Hyperlink practice
"In the long run, we shape our lives, and we shape ourselves. The process never ends until we die. And the choices we make are ultimately our own responsibility." -Eleanor Roosevelt
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