Tools and Types of Technologies
Computer-The students in the video used both desktop and laptop computers. Sometimes these computers were equipped with specialized software to further help the students complete tasks with the computer. Without the computer or laptop, students can not do homework or schoolwork because of their fine motor skills.
Wheelchair-Specifically motorized wheelchairs equipped with joysticks to help the child control the wheelchair were used. The wheelchairs allow students to navigate and travel more effectively or to move around at all.
Cell Phone-Mobile cell phones were used in the video by the student. The phone is available to call for help when needed. This allows the students the freedom to function without feeling like they need assistance with everyday tasks.
Voice Activated Software-Software was loaded on the computer to type for the students. They can simply speak into the microphone on the computer, and the computer types and makes changes in the document for the student. This technology helps students that have poor coordination, fine motor skills, or limb disabilities.
Desk That Could Raise and Lower-The desk mentioned in the video raises up and lowers to make the student more comfortable and make necessary tools more accessible.
Super Talker and Communication Board-There were different versions of communication boards used in the videos. Students could press a button to communicate with others. These devices can be personalized for each individual child to say what is important to them. Some versions allowed the children to use facial movements, head movements, and hand movements to choose the correct word on the board. These tools give students a voice when they needed to communicate.
Musical Instrument Modified with Joystick-This horn that was manipulated with a joystick gives the musician the ability to play the notes when he would not have otherwise been able to press the correct keys to make the notes.
AbleNet Bookworm-The AbleNet Bookworm turns any book into a read-aloud version of the book. The programmer places stickers on the pages to correlate to the correct button on the device. They then record their speech into the device so that the student can hear what is on the pages. This gives the student a wider variety of books to match interests and introduces them to a much wider vocabulary.
Having access to tools of this nature allows the student to live his or her life easier and more effectively. They encourage independence and teach the student to be more self-sufficient. The quicker a child is introduced to a particular technology, the more apt a student will be in using the technology. If a student can master the technology, then the teacher can teach the content using the technology. Some students would not be able to live in the world without these tools, but sometimes these tools can be phased out when the student masters the skill the assistive technology tool is helping them to learn. How awesome to be able to help a child function better in the world!
Disabilities
Susanna-Cerebral Palsy-Susanna states, "Without [these technologies] I could not exist as I am today". Her wheelchair gives her the ability to move around and travel to other locations. It even allows her to referee soccer games! Her computer with the voice recognition software gives her the ability to write papers and complete her assignments. She also has a desk that moves up and down giving her better access to her books, computer, and other tools she may need. All these things have allowed her to further her education in college! Something she would quite possibly not get to do without the technology.
Lukas-Amyoplasia Arthrogryposis Multiplex Congenita-A wheelchair also gives him the opportunity to move around and even participate in the marching band! He also has a horn that is equipped with a joystick to help him play certain notes that he would not be able to play because of the lack of use of his hands and fingers.
Josh-Autism-The AbleNet Bookworm has been very influential in Josh's education. This device has allowed Josh to choose books of his interests and have them programmed for the device to read to him. It wasn't long until Josh was recognizing the words and matching them with the correct word said aloud. Not only has this device helped Josh with literacy skills, it also has helped him learn to communicate with people, make eye contact, and be in the same physical space with others. That is a tremendous feat for Autistic children. This device has helped Josh be able to function in the world more effectively.
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