2. What is Assistive Technology Assistive Technology is defined as technology used by individuals with disabilities in order to perform functions that might otherwise be difficult or impossible. Assistive technology can include mobility devices such as walkers and wheelchairs, as well as hardware, software, and peripherals that assist people with disabilities in accessing computers or other information technologies(University of Washington, 2002)
3. Students with Special Needs Students with special needs require extra attention and effort on the part of teachers. Teachers must find ways to educate these students because most have difficulty learning information. There are also programs that assist students that have difficulty learning. Individualized Education Programs are for students that have difficulty learning and functioning and have been identified as a special needs student
4. Types of Special Needs Students with special needs require a different approach to teaching. Some of the students that teachers may encounter can have Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Autism, Hearing Impaired, Visually Impaired, Handicapped, Students that just learn slower when it comes to reading and writing, etc. These are all possible examples that teachers can encounter in a classroom. They must be fully equipped to educate these types of students. In the next few slides, there will be examples on how to accomplish this goal using the primary learning disabilities we have encountered at our school.
5. Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD) describes individuals that have trouble paying attention, controlling impulsive behaviors (might act without thinking about what the result will be), and in some cases, are overly active(CDC, 2010). For students in school, especially elementary school this can be a huge problem when it comes to focusing on the teacher and the lesson they are giving their students. The problem exists because teachers and students begin to get frustrated when no one is at fault at all. Teachers just have to find ways that can reach the students. Teachers can not become predictable in their teaching. Being creative and versatile is key. Students with this disability require more effort. Using technology in the classroom is a nice way to break the monotony of lecturing for these students. Teachers can use Microsoft Word and interact with students using internet in the classroom. They can use educational games to grab and retain the attention of these students as well.
6. Resources to help educate ADHD Students Seat students with ADD ADHD near the teacher's desk, but include them as part of the regular class seating. Surround students with ADD ADHD with good role models. Encourage peer tutoring and cooperative/collaborative learning. Avoid distracting stimuli. Try not to place students with ADD ADHD near air conditioners, high traffic areas, heaters, or doors or windows. Children with ADD ADHD do not handle change well, so avoid transitions, physical relocation (monitor them closely on field trips), changes in schedule, and disruptions. Be creative! Produce a stimuli-reduced study area. Let all students have access to this area so the student with ADD ADHD will not feel different.
7. Resources to help educate ADHD Students (cont’d) Encourage parents to set up appropriate study space at home, with set times and routines established for study, parental review of completed homework, and periodic notebook and/or book bag organization.Giving Instructions to Students with ADHD/ADHD Maintain eye contact during verbal instruction. Make directions clear and concise. Be consistent with daily instructions. Make sure students comprehend the instructions before beginning the task. Repeat instructions in a calm, positive manner, if needed. Help the students feel comfortable with seeking assistance (most children with ADD ADHD will not ask for help). Gradually reduce the amount of assistance, but keep in mind that these children will need more help for a longer period of time than the average child. (Children Disabilities, 1996)
8. Auditory Disabilities Teaching students with auditory disabilities can be very difficult. The main objective is to make sure the student is properly wearing their hearing device. Students with hearing impairments sometimes refuse to wear their hearing device because it may be uncomfortable or because of teasing from other students. It is the teacher’s responsibility to make sure the student wears it, and wears it properly. Any bullying or teasing must be handled by the instructor. Teachers can also perform necessary tasks in order to ensure that the students with hearing impairments are comfortable and can clearly hear the lesson being taught or instructions given to the students. Speaking clearly and saying things over again can ensure that hearing impaired students understand what you are saying. Technology can be used to help these students a lot as well. Teachers can use computers to teach students. Using computers is a nice way to give the students another avenue in which they can process information. When providing lectures, teachers can give the students a handout so that they are able to follow along and read any information they may have missed. PowerPoint presentations are a good way to keep the interest of hearing impaired students. This gives the student a visual of the information being taught.
9. Mild Learning Disabilities Students with mild learning disabilities need teachers that will be sensitive to their needs and not ignore or give up on them. These students require teachers to switch up their teaching style a bit to cater to their learning style. Allow the students participate in their learning. Students that are active learners obtain information because they are involved in what’s going on. These students can also benefit from technology in the classroom. Teachers can let students go to the computer lab to view lessons online. Teachers can also use Word or PowerPoint to instruct students. Educational games on the computer can also be a nice change for these students. Teachers must ensure that students have a clear understanding of the lessons being taught. If this means taking extra time to explain certain things or giving extra time on test then that’s what it takes.
10. Resources and References The following websites provide informative tips and strategies for teachers to help students with disabilities and disorders. Feel free to browse these websites to help students in need. (CDC, 2010). Attention- Deficit/ Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). Retrieved June 18, 2011 from http://www.cdc.gov/ncbddd/adhd/ (Children Disabilities, 1996). Teaching Children with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder ADHD ADD. Retrieved June 19, 2011 from http://www.childrensdisabilities.info/adhd/teaching-adhd.html (University of Washington, 2002). What is Assistive Technology. Retrieved June 19, 2011 from http://www.washington.edu/accessit/articles?109 Students with Auditory disabilities: http://www.asha.org/public/hearing/treatment/assist_tech.htm Students with Mild Learning Disabilities: http://www.ericdigests.org/2003-1/assistive.htm
