Just yesterday, I met with my county's adaptive technology specialist. We were going rounds about getting the tools that my kids need. The specialist wasn't fighting me because she did not feel that the devices I was asking for were unneeded, but more so because her hands were tied and she knew that I would have a hard time getting the county to provide my class with these tools.
I have two children in particular that have been completely non-responsive to all other methods of learning. Recently, the light went on and both of these children are trying to learn. What do I have to contribute to their sudden awakening? Computers! Both of these students have suddenly gained a love of learning because I found a niche that makes it fun for them.
I am currently in the process of designing a distance education program that stops student regression by presenting an online learning. At present, I am trying to get a touch screen for my one child so he won't have to strain to look back and forth between the monitor, the keyboard and the mouse.
I stumbled upon a great journal that is specific to using technology in the education of students with exceptional needs. In the particular excerpt that I reviewed, the title says it all… The future is now. This article is one of a series that addresses adaptive needs and learning needs of students and how technology plays an integral part in their education.
"Understanding how children are using and learning from consumer learning technologies is critical to maximizing their potential for students with disabilities." This article is one of many that I will use to support getting the technology I need for my kids.
Gray, T, & Silver-Pacuilla, H (2007). The Future is Now: Application and Innovation of Technology. Journal of Special Education Technology, 22:3, Retrieved April 15, 2008, from http://vnweb.hwwilsonweb.com/hww/results/external_link_maincontentframe.jhtml?_DARGS=/hww/results/results_common.jhtml.16.
3 comments:
Isn't it disappointing when you are met with opposition for trying to do your job for your students? Special Education students are weighted heavier on FTE counts for a reason, but it always seems that the students who are brining the money in don't seem to get to reap the benefits, like getting needed technology so they can learn effectivley. I truly wish you the best on your endeavor.
That is so true. I have spent so much of my own money and even more of my time fighting to get what my kids need. 4 of my guys/gals are considered profound; our school gets a lot of money for me teaching them, yet those are the 4 who need the technology and no one will help me get it for them.
It is particularly difficult in the current economic times. Many of the nursing schools in south Florida are faced with large budget cuts for the fall. Yet...there is a nursing shortage and a nursing faculty shortage!!! One four year program will have to cap it's fall admissions to 60; when last year they filled 100 spots with 1,000 applicants!! As educators we will need to begin to find more creative financing for the future!
Check out this website where you may find grant money for what you are pursuing.
http://www.teacherscount.org/teacher/awards.shtml?gclid=CKHfwbet6pICFQEoPQodPGqHeA#special
Good Luck
KB
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