Assistive Technology in The Classroom

“Every child can learn, just not in the same way or on the same day” - George Evans

As part of the Research into Practice series by the Ontario Association of Deans of Education, the use of technology in the classroom has been examined. Assistive technologies should be used as part of the regular class and available to all children, not just those who have more obvious needs.  “Use assistive technology as part of the regular rhythm of the class. When assistive technology becomes part of the classroom’s “DNA,” students and teachers will use it naturally and organically.”

The article also points out that technology is always changing, and in ways we haven’t had experience with before. We need to try new things and implement changes into the classroom to provide the resources required for all children to learn. “Don’t be afraid. We have changed the ways we teach mathematics and language (among many curricular areas) because of recommendations from applied research. A supportive school environment, where teachers and other educational specialists collaborate with and mentor each other, will support the implementation and use of assistive technology.”

Every child has the right to learn and it is up to the educator to ensure they have everything they need in order to learn. When it comes to learning disabilities in the classroom, there are many innovative assistive technologies available to students. These range from very simple manipulative toys to extremely complex powered wheelchairs and expensive computer software.

Sam Rutherford

Source:

http://www.edu.gov.on.ca/eng/literacynumeracy/inspire/research/WW_TechnologyTools.pdf