Goal:

Objectives:

At the completion of this module, students will:

1. Review legislative policies and mandates that led to all educators becoming familiar with AT options,
2. Review research on effective AT-enhanced instruction in the general classroom,
3. Become familiar with different technologies and strategies available to meet the mandates designed by IDEA (The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act-IDEA '97, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and Maryland COMAR regulations that support student access to and progress in the general curriculum. To include:
   • discuss the use of "no tech" and "low tech" accommodations to address the needs of students with disabilities;
   • demonstrate how a computerized graphic organizer can assist students with learning disabilities;
   • use software to develop an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) and exchange information with another professional so that appropriate assistive technology is identified;
   • use a modified keyboard;
   • explore the use of portable keyboards and word processors as assistive technology devices;
   • demonstrate the use of Personal Communication Symbols (PCS) in a variety of instructional situations;
   • explore the use of various software to develop an IEP (Individualized Education Plan) that includes modifications which are based on the student's strength's and needs;
   • explore the use of adaptive keyboards to interact with instructionally appropriate multimedia software;
   • review augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) through the development of multi-level environments;
   • utilize auditory and visual scanning in choice making with the use of (an) adaptive switch(s);
4. Identify national and local organizations and services associated with assistive technology.
5. Utilize state and national content and technology standards in designing technology-enhanced instruction and school technology plans,
6. Evaluate AT software applications for enhancing instruction and school administration,
7. Discuss Universal design principles in the context of general education environments and curriculum materials,
8. Explore the process for finding the right technology and the right applications, and determine how to pay for it,
9. Explore and discuss how to establish a technology team with an assistive technology representative, perform a school wide assessment of all student needs and develop a school and/or classroom tech plan,
10. Review and discuss assistive technology-enhanced options and materials for culturally diverse populations,
11. Review and discuss equity, ethical and legal issues in using technology in schools,
12. Share knowledge of important issues and trends related to assistive technology-enhanced content through online collaborative group discussions and reflect upon student experiences in a Web enhanced/Web-based course.