Assistive Technology In Education

Words: 1811
Pages: 8

Introduction
The purpose of this study was to research some of the assistive technologies (AT) that are available in schools that assist students with learning disabilities promoting equal opportunity and enhance their learning. Further research was conducted into ‘What are some AT’s used in the classroom and who chooses them’? ‘How are these AT’s used in the classroom’? and ‘What are the key considerations for the teacher when selecting AT’? The research conducted discloses how AT devices and systems are fundamental to learners with disabilities, enhancing their learning, promoting inclusive education and social acceptance improving quality of life.
What is Assistive Technology (AT)?
“Assisted Technology (AT) plays a key and fundamental
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Jamey has a diagnosis of Sown Syndrome. She lives with her mother, father and older brother. An assistive technology assessment (ATA) was performed on Jamey and she experiences delays with cognitive processing. This causes Jamey an immense amount of frustration as it takes longer for her to complete set tasks. The correct assistive technology is to be determined after a meeting with a team of professionals. In this instance, the team consisted of medical professionals, specialist teachers, speech pathologists, occupational therapists, Jamey and her parents. In this meeting Jamey’s needs and any concerns regarding her disability are discussed and plans are proposed. With Jamey participating in a mainstream educational setting she will require learning aids and some modifications will need to be carried out to some furniture and fixtures. Jamey will have access to an iPad which will allow her to complete the set tasks on the device alleviating some frustration. Smartboards will be introduced and utilised in the classroom as they are an excellent learning tool for all students, allowing Jamey to participate in an inclusive environment. On this device students can move objects with their fingers, readily accessing and downloading an enormous amount of learning and teaching programs and materials. This will enhance Jamey’s fine motor control which in turn will assist her to finish the tasks at greater speed and accuracy. To accommodate her seating arrangement, she will have a seat adjusted to her height allowing her to sit in the correct position with back straight and feet on the floor, she will also be assisted and supplied with pencil grips and a slant board which will assist in and enhance her writing skills. With these in place Jamey should be comfortable in her learning environment with minimal obstructions. Jamey will also be assisted by a teacher aide who will also assist in