Assistive Technology to Build an Inclusive Classroom

Assistive Technology

 

There have been enormous improvements in technology in the classroom since I was in elementary school. Educators today have a wide variety of resources and tools at their disposal. Technology allows us to pull in visual, audio, hands on learning in a way that was unimaginable during my days as an elementary student in the 90’s.  

Along with this abundance of resources comes a wonderful opportunity for students with disabilities to flourish in general education classrooms.  

Many children with disabilities need concrete examples, visual learning, audio learning or interactive technology. How awesome is it to now be able to provide hard of hearing students with videos with closed captioning whenever it is needed. Text to speech technology improves learning for students with blindness, dyslexia, or any type of visual impairment, learning disability or other physical condition that impedes the ability to read. 

Sip-and-puff systems are used by students who have mobility challenges, such as paralysis and fine motor skill disabilities. These systems allow for control of a computer, mobile device or some other technological application by the child moving the device with his or her mouth. 

Thanks to the rapid advances in assistive technology tools, students, parents, and teachers have a limitless number of tools at their disposal. A quick Google search can provide us with a variety of sources on any given topic and can cater to a variety of disabilities. It is our responsibility as new educators to ensure our students with disabilities are provided with the same access to resources as other students. Using technology, we can create an inclusive classroom environment and improve learning for everyone!