The article below was written by Katie Novak, an education consultant, who shared her feedback after spending a week at the Bartholomew Consolidated School
Corporation’s (BCSC) UDL Institute where she collaborated with educators at
all levels of UDL implementation. I wanted to share this article as I felt it really resonated with me regarding the goals of Assistive Technology and the understanding that AT is not "one size fits all". What works for one child, may not for another.
A-Ha Moment about Assistive Technology
Dr. Joy Zabala, ED.D |
Although it’s critical that all students receive a Tier I education with their peers in an inclusive environment, students with intensive needs may need additional supports or specific assistive technologies that are not available as options for all students. UDL principles are used to intentionally lower barriers for all, but teachers must recognize that there are additional barriers that some learners experience and as a result, they may be specialized services such as physical and occupational therapy or a specific assistive technology tool.
As Joy explained, assistive technology enhances the capabilities of students and is related to function, rather than a specific disability. Accessibility is a moving target. What is accessible to one person may be a barrier for another. In Joy’s work, she notes that she is sometimes asked, “What assistive technology should I use with a student with autism or cerebral palsy?” There is no correct answer. Disabilities affect students in different ways, so it’s important to get to know how a disability affects a student’s ability to function and then explore technologies that enhance those functions so students can access the options provided to all. Assistive technology allows students to participate and experience learning instead of just observing it. Hearing Joy explain assistive technology in this way gave me a, “Wait, what?” moment that helped me to understand how UDL can meet the needs of all students when coupled with specialized support and assistive technology.
At the conclusion of her presentation, Joy shared that achievement for all requires three things: great teaching the UDL way, appropriate support and services and accessible materials and technologies for all students. That’s the magic equation that will allow all students to become expert learners.
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