• Students with special needs are
learning to type on a keyboard, activate a touch switch or
touch screen, choose software, create multimedia projects
and communicate using alternative means.
•
Teachers are modifying their use of educational software so
that highly engaging, interactive lessons meet standards
based curriculum goals and objectives.
• Digital cameras, video production and multimedia software
are being introduced to personalize and detail daily
learning experiences and projects, including schedules and
PECS cards.
• Video based interactive learning is a common model in the
classroom for teaching social and functional skills.
• Augmentative Communication devices are used by students
with particular communication needs.
• The Internet is a tool in the special needs classroom.
E-mail, websites, classroom pages, blogs, virtual field
trips and webquests are all common activities.
Special
Education
• Special Education teachers with technology skills are
volunteering their services to help train other teachers
and caregivers on the tools of the new special education
classroom. 
• Teacher credential programs require educational
technology courses for general and special education
teachers.
• Special Education Technology Specialists provide direct
training and services for both assistive and educational
technology.
• Lesson plan banks online and in print include special
education as a category with equal consideration.
• Major software development companies consider the special
education market a viable one. Many software applications
are "Adaptive" and meet universal design standards.
• Special education students are skilled computer users and
are applying for "other" employment positions within their
communities.
• Students with special needs are attending colleges,
taking online courses and living successful, independent
lives.
• Independent living for students with special needs is
supported by technology-based assistive devices.