1. SPED595T Application of Technology in Special Education

2. Course Overview SPED595T
This course provides an overview of computer- based technologies as they relate to the teaching and learning of students with learning differences or physical challenges and to facilitate the successful integration of these individuals into a inclusive classroom. A basic understanding of how to use a computer is essential.

3. What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
IDEA (20 U.S.C. Section 1401) includes the following definitions:
ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY DEVICE: The term ‘assistive technology device’ means any item, piece of equipment or product system, whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized, that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability.

4. General Types of High Tech Assistive Technology
Input
Voice Activated Control (Speech to Text)
Physical Input Devices: trackballs, mouth sticks, head wands, Keyboards
Scanning Software
Output
Text to Speech
Screen Reader Software
Screen Enlargers
Speech Synthesizers
Captioning for the spoken word
Descriptive Audio
Assistive Technology Resource: Ability Hub
Organizational Software Tools
– Flow charts
– Brainstorming
– Overlays
– Calendaring Systems

5. Low Tech Types of Assistive Technology
Low Tech Solutions
Pencil Grips
Color Overlays
Tape text read out loud
Paper cut outs

6. What are some of the Challenges?
To understanding an individual’s different abilities and the functional impact of their strengths and weaknesses.
Avoid the temptation to apply familiar or popular technology solutions in a classroom setting without analysis of the impact on the individual.
Evaluation of the whole person, including how they relate to technology, people, and the world around them.
To understand the individual learning style.

7. Hierarchy of Experience
Conceptualization
5) Abstraction of ideas, generalization, abstract problem solving categorical reasoning
Symbolization
4) Ability to represent experience through language either verbally or nonverbally
3) Comprehensive frame of reference for information and the sequence and storing of it
Imagery/memory
2) Ability to differentiate between stimuli via the sensory channels and for the brain to give stimuli meaning
Perception
Sensation
1) Activation of sensorineural structures
Johnson, D.J. & Myklebust, H.R. Learning Disabilities, Grune & Stratton, New York, 1967