Integrating Technology for Special Needs
In the article One Size Never Fits All by Jennifer Courduff, Courduff reveals the positive outcomes in technology integration for special needs students. Courduff reveals that schools train teachers to integrate technology in the curriculum, however within the program there was no training that focused on special needs students. The Ettwanda School District in California took action and designed a program this approach consists of tree tiers.
Tier 1:
Teachers learn the use of assistant technology(AT), fusion writers, and microphones to enhance learning and meet individualized education program (IEP).
Tier 2:
Teachers are introduced to e-portfolios and given equipment to integrate technology and influence student-led conferences. Therefore, teachers learn through face to face interactions and the importance of the online environment.
Tier 3:
Technology will emerge into place and replace face-to-face collaboration and into online collaboration with some face to face support. Both teachers and students will learn skills through e-portfolios, digital story etc.
Courduff discloses that it will be a long process however it will benefit the child in the long run. In the article we learn about students already improving writing and reading skills through technology. For example Adriana a second grade student was an unmotivated student, therefore her teacher introduced her to speech-to-text feature on MS Word. This tool intrigued Adriana and engaged her in learning by "speaking her thoughts into the computer". After being introduced to speech-to-text Adriana esclaims "I Love to talk my writing into the computer. I can make stories. It's fun!" Thereafter Adriana was introduced to new tools to improve her writing skills.
"What teachers really need is to learn to match specific curricular tasks with technology resources that engages students, increase understanding, and enhance learning."
That is exactly what I acquired from this reading, students have different styles of learning and as educators we must select what is effective for our students. Teachers are not trained on how to integrate technology into the curriculum for special needs students. However the program that Ettwanda School District created of tiers is of great value and benefits both educators and students. These feature tools engage special needs students and enhance their reading and writing skills without them realizing it. This article prompts educators that one must be inclusive with all their students, and find tools to support their learning.
References:
Courduff, J. Technology Integration for Special Needs. Learning & Leading with Technology. June/July 2011.
