Vanessa Leyva Discussion 1 week 3 EDU 620 Meeting Individual Student Needs With Technology Instructor: Dusty Clark 9/23/2014 to 11/3/2014

Discussion 1 Question? Develop a five-minute video recording using Jing and paste the links to the video within your discussion post in response to the case study. As the special education teacher, what would you suggest the next steps be for Sherri’s teachers to help strengthen her writing skills in terms of assistive technology? Make sure to include in the video examples of the technology device, cost, how it can be implemented in the classroom, the pros and cons of the device, and if it is transportable (can she take it home?). What would you suggest to Sherri’s mother to make completing homework assignments that require writing more manageable?. NOTE: To change images on this slide, select a picture and delete it. Then click the Insert Picture icon in the placeholder to insert your own image.

Question 1:As the special education teacher, what would you suggest the next steps be for Sherri’s teachers to help strengthen her writing skills in terms of assistive technology? Caption: I would suggest a portable word processor. NOTE: To change images on this slide, select a picture and delete it. Then click the Insert Picture icon in the placeholder to insert your own image.

A portable word processor A portable word processor, often called a portable keyboard, is a lightweight device that is an alternative to using a laptop computer for writing. It can be easily transported from class to class and between home and school. The size of the screen varies depending on the specific device. The text is usually auto-saved and can later be revised and/or sent directly to the printer. Text may also be uploaded onto the computer through any word processing program and edited and saved as needed. Text from the computer can also be downloaded to the portable word processor. In addition, a built-in spell check is included to assist students in editing their writing. Word processing allows the user to edit and correct his written work more efficiently than doing so by hand. Most portable word processors have keyboarding programs available. Some portable word processors include the NEO (Alpha Smart), Dana (Alpha Smart), Alpha Smart 3000 (Alpha Smart), Quick Pad (Quick Pad Technology), the Writer Fusion (Advanced Keyboard Technologies), and Laser PC 6 (Perfect Solutions). Although the Alpha Smart 3000 is used by many students, it is no longer in production. (The NEO replaced the Alpha Smart 3000.) The Student Mate (Alta Heights Technology) is a portable word processor that has additional features including 2 USB ports that can be used for various devices and an Ethernet port for internet access. Portable word processors can be helpful for students with writing difficulties, who often require an alternative to pencil and paper. They are a good solution for students who have poor handwriting and prefer to use a keyboard. Students with attention deficits may also benefit from this solution.

Caption:The portable word processor A portable word processor, often called a portable keyboard, is a lightweight device that is an alternative to using a laptop computer for writing. It can be easily transported from class to class and between home and school. The size of the screen varies depending on the specific device. The text is usually auto- saved and can later be revised and/or sent directly to the printer. Text may also be uploaded onto the computer through any word processing program and edited and saved as needed. Text from the computer can also be downloaded to the portable word processor. In addition, a built-in spell check is included to assist students in editing their writing. Word processing allows the user to edit and correct his written work more efficiently than doing so by hand. Most portable word processors have keyboarding programs available. Question 2:Make sure to include in the video examples of the technology device, cost, how it can be implemented in the classroom, the pros and cons of the device, and if it is transportable (can she take it home NOTE: To change images on this slide, select a picture and delete it. Then click the Insert Picture icon in the placeholder to insert your own image. The portable word processor cost is between 20 dollars and 200 hundred dollars.

NOTE: To change images on this slide, select a picture and delete it. Then click the Insert Picture icon in the placeholder to insert your own image.

Question 3 What would you suggest to Sherri’s mother to make completing homework assignments that require writing more manageable. –I would suggest to use the word processor to help serry make it easier.I would suggest The Forte it will allow Sherri to improve her keyboarding skills, spelling skills, and improve her writing skills, also The Forte has a word prediction option.

The Forte combines all of the great writing support features found on the Fusion with a smaller, lightweight design. We've greatly increased battery life and provided a higher contrast display. Simple, quick and focused; teachers and students love this new writing support tool. All students benefit. Developing "keyboard fluency" benefits all students. First step is keyboard mastery, then application of those skills by using the Forte as a daily writing tool. Improved writing skills, speed and digital-writing confidence follows. Give your students a Forte and watch as they discover the joy of writing. Especially effective in helping students succeed with the following issues: Dysgraphia Dyslexia Poor spelling skills Reading and decoding issues ADD/ADHD ASD Premium Support Programs Include:

References Edyburn, D. L. (2013). Inclusive technologies: Tools for helping diverse learners achieve academic success. San Diego, CA: Bridgepoint Education, Inc. Technology/Pages/WS-Portable-Word-Processors.aspx