Cliff Hutto Columbus State University

Ubiquitous mobile computing Mobile devices in the classroom More sources of open content Increased amounts of free content online Massive open online courses (MOOCs) Cheaper, more availability courses for everyone…worldwide Increased e-book/e-text presence Replacement of paper textbooks Tablet computing Used in part with mobile computing and e-texts Augmented reality systems Virtual learning

Wearable technologies Google glasses Gesture-based computing Controlling devices with movements Games and gamification Student learning through games Learning analytics Using data to form personalized learning models 3D printing Using printers to create 3D models

Flexible Learning Environments Personalized Learning Systems (PLS) New Instructional Models Reliance on Learning at a Distance Increased Educational Options for Students with Disabilities

As teachers, we are constantly looking for ways in which students can learn in a fun and interactive way. This is especially true in the Science field. Limitations of some students with disabilities can sometimes complicate plans for some activities. A student’s disability should not limit his/her learning and experiences. Technology can allow these students to experience the same forms of learning as all other students.

Lab simulations Allows students with disabilities to perform labs without having to worry about injuries from chemicals, flames, etc. Virtual field trips Enables students with physical disabilities to visit places through virtual reality and the use of augmented reality and gesture-based computing.

While obtaining my bachelor’s degree in Geology, I befriended someone that was paralyzed from the waist down due to him being shot while living in a foreign country. Our final course to complete our degree was a field study in Montana, mapping terrain and identifying rock/sediment layers. My friend realized that he would not be able to physically complete this course, so he dropped out of the program in his junior year. During this time, our professor of the course (along with a few other professors) were working on a virtual model of the areas in which we travel in Montana. Although it has yet to be completed, this type of technology would be able to allow students to complete coursework and graduate with degrees in areas of their interest.