Educational technology in the special education classroom affords students with special needs the opportunity to accomplish IEP goals and objectives and core curriculum while engaged in a math or reading multi-sensory experience. Educational software may include Edmark Reading, Digital Frog, or Let’s Go Read.
The big screen can be used to
design KidPix animated stories, or to story-map a writing
assignment using Inspiration™. On the screen students watch
iMovies, or powerPoint slideshows.
The screen used as a whiteboard allows students to copy
spelling words presented with Microsoft Word. Computer
technology allows the special education teacher to change
font, color and size, use a discrimination color
background, add audio, and graphics to accompany words.
Math lessons may include interactive calculators or
TouchMath™ symbols that can be drawn and interacted with.
Students can use a hand held microphone to interact with
various software programs such as Community Exploration or
Earobics. Software programs that require verbal interaction
are great activities for expressive communication.
Computers are used as pencils in the special education
classroom. They are not a “center” station nor are students
granted computer time for good behavior. Technology affords
a certain amount of autonomy and students seem to respond
to that. Adaptive technology allows for automation of
subject matter review and advancement. Also, many
educational software programs today provide automated data
collection.
Educational technology in
the special education classroom is a widely researched
area of study today. Studies include looking at video
based instruction for autism, the success of word
prediction software, length of time on task using
technology based learning, and much more.
Sandbox Consulting can assist you with methods, equipment,
data collection, lesson plans, assessments, resources and
faculty training.
Call (909)
466-8752