Example IEP's & Assistive Technology

Just a quick post, but in the next several blogs, I would like to show you several different IEPs and appropriate devices that would meet the annual goals.

Assistive Technology & the Writing Process

Good Evening everyone,

I am currently sitting in my graduate school, assistive technology classroom and felt the need to share some information about assistive technology and how it works with the writing process.  Personally, I have several students in my classroom this year that have IEPs, that require specific modifications and adaptations in the classroom and on different assignments.  

As far as IEP considerations, the educating team should consider in one or all of the three areas:

1. As a part of the annual goals.
2. Related services.
3. Supplemental aid or services needed to support the student in the least restrictive environment.

 However, over my first four years of teaching, I have found that although only a few students have IEPs, with specific requirements for their learning, it is beneficial to all students to provide assistive technology or other resources in order for them to accomplish academic tasks on a day-to-day basis.  

For example, there are students in my class, that require a tablet in order for the to complete phonics and sight word practice.  When this student begins using the tablet, the majority of the class begins to ask "why does _________ get to use the tablet?"  Through observation, I have now provided the tablet and other forms of "high," technology as a learning tool for all of the students in my classroom.  

Technology in the classroom

     Even though the video is about an hour in length, I found some time to watch this video and it provided some new and exciting apps to try with students.  In our school district, our autistic support is actually located in a different elementary school, however, I still integrate iPads and other technology in our classroom for students to communicate.  Specifically, this year, I have one little boy who has a stutter and news to use communication cards and an iPad to communicate.  Without the iPad and other technologies in place for him, our student gets extremely frustrated when he try to communicate, so we provide him with these strategies to speak to teachers and classmates.  In our classroom, the main app that we use is a core board for students to communicate common things that they need to do in the day.  Furthermore, in my student's situation, we do phonics and sight words, as well as, basic math facts on there as well. 

Electronic Touch Tablet

     These are great forms of high-technology that can be extremely beneficial in any classroom, for any student.  Our second grade class is currently raising money to purchase two tablets for our classroom.  We currently borrow several from one of the other teachers in our building from across the hall.  I have used them as rewards for students to earn time on tablets, I have several students that are gifted and finish their work early, so I provide enrichment activities for them on the tablets, as well as a way to practice phonics, basic math facts, and other essential materials throughout the school year.

Type to Learn Software

     This is such an amazing product!  I am a second grade teacher in the Pottstown School District and our entire second grade team uses Type to Learn.  During our six day cycle, our class goes to our computer lab twice in the cycle to use the Type to Learn program for 40 min.  It really provides the students an opportunity to practice using a computer, as well as, develop their typing skills.  All of our students, regardless of learning disability, IEP, 504, or a general education student is able to use this program.  I have paired with our OT teacher in the past to come in and facilitate our lessons and provide some additional feedback to all students in our class.

Voice Output Communication Devices

     By definition, a voice output communication device enables users to speak.  Children that have difficulties speaking can use these devices in order to "speak," or communicate with teachers, classmates, employers, etc.  Students who may be non-verbal or may have autism can also benefit from the use of these devices.  It has been thought that when students cannot speak, they do not understand what is happening around them.  I have provided a great link for anyone stopping in to this blog to check out (http://www.aacandautism.com/why-aac/why-use-aac)!

Assisted Literacy Software

     Assisted literacy software helps develop literacy skills such as phonemic awareness, decoding and comprehension skills and reading fluency.  These programs benefit students with reading disabilities, such as dyslexia.  

Multi-sensory Educational Software

     Multi-sensory educational software is extremely important for educators to use in the classroom, not just for students with learning disabilities, but ultimately for every student in your class.  There is so much research surrounding the body and mind connection, as it refers to learning.  One of the best multi-sensory programs that I specifically use in our classroom and that our district uses, is TouchMath (http://www.touchmath.com).

Books on CD

Well, when I was growing up, these used to be called "books on tape," but as we continue to expand in the world of technology, it has developed into "books on cd."  There are three main points that I would like to address, that are the benefits of books on cd.

1. Audiobooks and digital text-to-speech books can be a good way to help kids with reading issues.
2. You can bet these books for free from libraries, schools and online sources like Bookshre.
3. As a parent or teacher, you should talk to your school and local library about what is available for your child.