Technology for Persons with Learning Disabilities Chapter 12

Early Technology Application Common applications: –Basic word processing with spell-check –Computerized data management systems now known as PDA Assistive technologies –Print magnification systems –Speech output devices –Enlarged computer keyboards –Abbreviation expanders –Screen readers

Multimedia-enhanced Learning Multimedia: use of computer technologies to enhance text through making computer connections between text material and additional clarification material. Hypermedia: like trees with many branches, a student can redirect the content and access the informational resources on the computer regarding the associated topic or question –view other information then return to original site.

Multimedia Involves “high interests” instructional tools by including video clips Need to evaluate multimedia packages with consideration of the characteristics of students with LD – will the aspects benefit the students

Interactivity Components Learner control: pacing, sequencing, and selection of material Stimulus characteristics: the material presented and how it is presented Learner response: emotional responses anticipated from the student Consequences: actions the program takes as a result of student reponses

Motivational Aspects with Multimedia Student’s attention must be obtained Lesson must build relevance by connecting the lesson to the student’s prior experiences Lesson should allow the student to build confidence that he or she will succeed in the lesson Student must receive some degree of satisfaction from the learning experience

Instructional Application of the Internet Cyberpals Projects – cross class projects Publishing Students’ Work Website Research On-Line Mentoring

Cautions Teachers must be certain that learning is taking place Can get easily lost on the internet Moving from site to site does not allow synthesis of information Unregulated and easy access to inappropriate topics (e.g., pornography and overt violence