Assistive technology in inclusive education

basic level understanding

1. By K arthick

2. What is Technology?

3. What is Technology? When you think of the word 'technology', what comes to mind? It might sound like something from a sci-fi show, or something that has to run on electricity. Technology makes us think of the very complex, but energy doesn't have to be complex.

4. Technology   T echnology  is the use of scientific knowledge for practical purposes or applications, whether in industry or in our everyday lives. So , basically, whenever we use our scientific knowledge to achieve some specific purpose, we're using technology.

5. contd ….   Well, there is slightly more to it than that. Technology usually involves a specific piece of equipment, but that equipment can be incredibly simple or dazzlingly complex. It can be anything from the discovery of the wheel, all the way up to computers and MP4 players.

6. Technology

7. Introduction Assistive technology (AT) is any item, piece of equipment, software program, or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of persons with disabilities.

8. contd ….. Assistive technology helps people who have difficulty speaking, typing, writing, remembering, pointing, seeing, hearing, learning, walking, and many other things. Different disabilities require different assistive technologies.

9. Definition It is any device, instrument, equipment which helps to increase the functioning capacity of persons with disability It can be purchased off the shelf, customized according to needs It is needed for increasing/maximizing the functional potential of PWDs

10. Assistive Technology Legislation

11. Assistive Technology – Types by Technology It can be mainly divided into three types based on technology: Low tech/ no tech Mid tech High tech

12. Assistive Technology – Types by Technology Low Tech Low tech/ no tech: does not involve the use of batteries or any technology

13. Low Tech Ex: flash cards, static models, grippers

14. Assistive Technology – Types by Technology Mid Tech Mid tech involves usage of battery but no processing involved

15. Mid Tech Ex : talking alarm, talking watch, talking calculator ,

16. Assistive Technology – Types by Technology High Tech High Tech involves devices involving batteries, processing involvement

17. High Tech Ex. Computers, screen readers

18. Assistive Technology – Classification by Use AT for PWID AT for PWVI AT for PWHI AT for PWLD AT for PWOH AT for SPEECH PROBLEMS AT for CWASD

19. Inclusion

20. What is Inclusion in education? The term  inclusion  captures, in one word, an all-embracing societal ideology. Regarding individuals with disabilities and special  education ,  inclusion  secures opportunities for students with disabilities to learn alongside their non-disabled peers in general  education  classrooms.

21. Contd … Inclusion classroom settings are supported by the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) which mandates that students with disabilities be education in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE).

22. Contd … Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) means students will have the opportunity to learn in an environment that is closest to the regular classroom setting as possible

23. CATEGORY/ AREA OF FUNCTION ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS NEED AND RELE VANCE IN CLASS ROOM LEARNING Reading Electronic books, Book adapted for page turning, Single word scanners, Predictable texts, Tabs, Talking electronic devices/software, Speech Software For students having difficulty in reading and understanding written text and in paying attention to the reading assigned.

24. Writing Pen/Pencil grips, Templates, Word processors, Word card/book/wall, software, Spelling/Grammar checker, Adapted papers For students having problem in writing or composition Math Calculators, Talking Clocks, Enlarged Worksheets, Voice Output Measuring Devices, Scientific Calculators For students having computational problems and confusions, and finding it difficult to perform well in Math lessons Vision Eye glasses, Magnifier, Screen Magnification, Screen Reader, Braille Large Print Books, CCTV, Audio Lesson Tapes For students who have difficulty in seeing or lack complete vision

25. Hearing Hearing Aids, Pen and paper, Signaling Devices, Closed Captioning For students who have difficulty in hearing or are absolute hearing impaired Computer Access Word prediction, Alternative keyboards, Pointing Option, Switches, Voice recognition software For students finding it difficult to access the computer in its standard form and have difficulty in performing academic tasks Augmentative Alternative Communication Communication Board, Device with speech synthesis for typing, Eye gaze board/ frame, Voice output device For students having problems in comprehension of language, and lacking the ability to express it, or are unclear in speech and demonstrate delayed expressive language

26. Learning Disability and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) Use of applications/devices depending upon the degree of disability/difficulty, in the area of reading and writing (Dyslexia), hand eye coordination, written expression and composition (Dysgraphia), difficulty in ne motor skills, Coordination (Dyspraxia), Math (Dyscalculia) and Attention (ADHD) like Talking electronic devices, Calculators, Electric Organizers, Highlighters, Pencil Grips, Post-its, Computers, Spelling/Grammar Checker, Electronic Organizers, Recorded materials, Hand held Scanners, Print or picture schedule, Electronic Diaries etc. For Students having problem in language development, reading and writing (Dyslexia), hand-eye coordination, written expression and composition (Dysgraphia), difficulty in ne motor skills, Coordination (Dyspraxia), Math (Dyscalculia), and ADHD.

27. 8 TYPES OF ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TO UTILIZE TODAY Apps for tablets.  Combine iPods with communication apps to allow students a variety of ways to convey their ideas with a tap of the screen. The lightweight and portability of iPods make this easy to use.

28. Contd …. Encourage positive behavior and parental participation with computer programs.   Class Dojo  is a great example of what is available for educators. This program allows students to receive real-time feedback on behavior and class participation. It is also a great way to communicate with parents.

29. Contd … Look for co-writer word programs that are similar to autocorrect.  This allows children to write and express their ideas on the computer without worrying about spelling. There are also apps for dysgraphia that allow students to snap an image of their paper and type in the answers to avoid falling behind in class.

30. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TO UTILIZE TODAY cOnt … Use hearing aid compatible headsets to allow children with hearing impairments or aids to hear audio better.  These simply fit over a hearing aid and work just like headphones.

31. ASSISTIVE TECHNOLOGY TO UTILIZE TODAY cOnt … Smart pens can streamline the writing process.  These writing utensils have the ability to record lectures or spoken words as you write, which allows the author to focus on writing or listening. Later, they trace the words on the paper to hear the recording.

32. Contd … “Slide boards” or custom made supports for keyboards or tablets.  These wood or plastic frames steady hands while typing or engaging on a screen without limiting the device.

33. Contd … Velcro tabs or small stuffed animals.  Look for small handheld manipulative that provide stimulation to help calm restless children or increase focus during lectures or quiet times. These are examples of low-tech assistive technology.

34. Contd … Monitoring software for Smartphones and Internet use.  This is a good  recommendation for parents of children with special needs who are using the Internet on a regular basis . These programs allow parents to view a child’s texts and online activity to make sure they are not being targeted by cyber bullies or predators.

35. For creating an Impact – AT has to Improve functional independence circumventing environmental barriers, maximize personal independence, and increase activity participation Provide greater opportunity for social participation education and integration, including institutions in higher education and the workforce The impact can be studied by implementing AT in specific life roles for functioning

36. Impact of AT in Daily Life – Dementia as Example Counter Memory loss, orientation or communication that are affecting their daily life Voice based prompts and reminders Calendars and Time Management Health and Medication Management Location, Identification, Movement and Safety Simple and Advanced Communication Techniques Support Social participation, engagement and leisure

37. Impact of AT in Education – Cross Disabilities Physical access issues, deficiency in Knowledge acquisition, Educational activities and routines management Access provisioning to Educational environment Positioning, Sustainability and Environmental Control Educational Resources in Accessible Format Participation in Classroom routines and Contribute like their Peers Adapt Assessment procedure to the abilities Enhances efficiency and Higher Education opportunities

38. Impact of AT in Employment Multiple Disabilities Physical access issues, access to Information and Services, accomplishment of tasks & schedules, sustaining career and development Access provisioning to Employment environment (Self or Services) Positioning, Sustainability and Environmental Control Informational Resources in Accessible Format Adaptations required for accomplishment of tasks to the abilities Enhances safety, efficiency and career opportunities

39. Impact of Assistive Technology – Quantity & Quality Increased confidence and self-motivation Increased independence and autonomy Expanded memory, recall, learning and life experiences New opportunities for interactions and communication Accountability and Committed, reassurance of education and career Change in vision of potential, feel less stressed by adults, peers and child Integrated and required participation in life and society

40. What is the different between adaptive technology and assistive technology?