Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Journal #8 Adaptive Technology


The iPad has quickly proved itself to be utilized as a useful tool for students with disabilities. The iPad offers many beneficial “applications” that can be used as tools in the classroom. One particular way that the iPad has integrated technology is by improving communication through the use of visual schedules. 
COMMUNICATION
A visual schedule is a series of pictures that outlines daily events that should be expected. For example, one might create a visual schedule with pictures like a bus and a schoolhouse to indicate that they will be going to school that day. Visual schedules have proven to be beneficial to those mainly in the Autistic spectrum because individuals with Autism become familiar with routine and tend to behave better when they know what to expect during the day. With the advance of the iPad, this type of communication is even easier than ever before.
Another way individuals with Autism can benefit from the use pictures is by communicating how they are feeling, what they want, etc.  With paper pictures, the user is limited as to what exactly they can communicate. However, with the iPad, individuals are now offered a wider selection of pictures to choose from. For example, my brother used to use the visual aides in form of paper to communicate with the family. These paper pictures were protection by lamination, but that did not stop them from getting lost or damaged. Now, all my brother needs is the iPad itself to let us know what he wants.
Home isn’t the only place that those with disabilities can utilize the iPad. It can be used as a tool in the classroom as well. The iPad offers a great selection of books, where students can easily navigate through the pages and zoom in or out based on preference. The iPad has children’s books and story telling applications that can read out loud to the student if they are unable to read! In addition, the iPad offers applications that assist students spelling, handwriting, and literacy.
Reading is not the only way that this device can be utilized in the classroom. The applications offered are virtually limitless. There are varieties of math applications, language applications science applications, and art applications.
Music applications particularly can be a very beneficial tool to individuals with Autism. A common interest throughout the Autistic spectrum is music, which include beats, sounds, and rhythm.
The iPad also offers many applications that include fun games and activities. Some can be used in the classroom, or simply for entertainment purposes.
 ACCESSIBILITY
I have gone over many of the benefits to individuals with disabilities using the iPad not only in the home but also in the classroom. These benefits have been recognized and therefore financial assistance is made available through the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act  (IDEA), meaning that if a student falls under the category of IDEA, they may qualify for a free iPad provided by the government.

1 comment:

  1. I am glad this kind of technology exist to help and provide a better education for students with special needs.

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