Class One

Today's class was an eyeopener to the very vast world of assistive technology. It was an introductory class that made you wanting more. What I found most interesting was understanding that there is something practical and engaging for all abilities/competencies and using frameworks such as SETT, HAAT or SAMR we learn to dig deeper into understanding our students, physically, emotionally and socially not just academically to provide them with the most appropriate tools to ensure they can complete the tasks at hand. Not only are these tools effective, but they are extremely engaging which was what I found when using Powtoon. The ability to adapt my thoughts and personalize them to meet my personality/understanding of the concept at hand is what I think all students would be drawn to when completing a task. I loved how this user friendly program allowed the user to use audio, visuals, text and symbols to produce an authentic project. Students and individuals of all academic levels can use this web based program. I could even visualize specific students in my school using and loving this program.

We discuss inclusive classrooms as part of our best practices, yet we are still missing key teachable moments because as teachers we are not fully aware of the services and devices that exist within assistive technology. I am so excited to further explore programs such as Tellagami, Chomp App and Strip Design throughout this course so that I can take them (and more) back to my staff so that we can better work with our students to foster their differences and encourage success.

When I saw the video of the non-verbal grade 3 student using Eyegaze to use a computer program to compose a sentence I was shocked and amazed. This student had only been using this program for two days and was able to put his thoughts out there so others could understand. Nonverbal doesn't mean anything other than that person has a different way of communicating and that is exactly what Eyegaze provided in this situation. I also admired the team that was present while this student was using this tool. It is extremely important for educators to understand teaching and learning should be collaborative. There is so much for everyone to learn each day and the more collaboration that happens the more learning can/will happen as well. This will certainly be something that will grow as teachers and administrators begin the next school year implementing PLC time into their schedules. If inclusive practices are a struggle then this new embedded time can certainly be a means of working things out!

Exploring these different apps and programs was an extremely effective way to understand and appreciate the world of assistive technology. I am excited to see what is yet to come……….