Assistive Technology (AT)
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AT is any technology or equipment that is used to help people with a disability overcome challenges that may prevent him/her from learning or functioning. Types and examples range from specialized pen or pencil grips to alternate mouse or keyboards for computers to voice recognition software.
Universal Design for Learning (UDL)
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UDL is the practice of designing instruction that reduces barriers to learning by forseeing all accomodations that may be needed to enhance learning. All students should be able to learn even if they have a physical disability, a learning disability, have learned English as a second language, etc.
Introduction
This Teaching with Technology newsletter supports Universal Design for Learning (UDL) and the use of Assistive Technology (AT) in the classroom. In fact, there may be students with vision, hearing, sensory, and other such disabilities, including learning disabilities. Technology is used to reduce barriers in instruction that may otherwise hinder or prevent students from reaching their full potential academically. As a result, students may need devices or equipment to enlarge text, help with reading, writing, or spelling, for note taking, converting speech to text or for converting text to speech, among other things. For that, reason I chose to view information from the 'Write' Apps for Note Taking Webinar. It focused on the use of the iPad and various apps to improve student performance and daily functionality. This is especially beneficial when students are able to create their own study materials which enables them to take ownership of their learning. Likewise, the elementary schools where I work are 1:1 with iPads. Therefore, this newsletter is a great platform for me to use to provide tools for teachers that they can use to implement UDL and the use of AT.
A Kindle e-reader and eye glasses
A person using a stylus pen and a tablet