Assistive technology

Assistive technology, commonly abbreviated as AT, is used in the educational field as a means of educating students with various mediums of technology. The words in themselves often lead people to believe that we are talking about technology such TVs, phones, computers, and so on but the actual word encompasses way more than electronics. Assistive technologies are defined by any device that can aid in a student’s learning in the general education curriculum. There are various types of assistive technologies, high tech (electronic devices most often), medium tech, and low tech (which can be as simple as a grippe pencil holder. Teachers use devices to increase student achievement and involvement in class even if they have a disability that limits their ability to complete certain tasks without aid.

              I believe assistive technologies are very useful in the classroom. As a teacher in special education, I often see the benefits of even the simplest devices. When teaching a math lesson, my students often rely on a calculator to complete the basic arithmetic. This is considered a low tech device as it aids the student in completing harder task, aka algebra, and allows them to be involved in the lesson standard without struggling to catch up because they have difficulty with number since and arithmetic. Other devices that are used most commonly are smart boards and smart response systems. Students with ADHD and hyperactivity disorder can find sitting in class troublesome. With the use of interactive devices such as smart clickers, students with these diagnosis can participate and be entertained throughout the lesson. Any type of Assistive technology is useful in a classroom as it provides assistance to students who are in need.

citations:
Fecich, S. (2015, July 7). GCSE657. Graduate Class. Lecture conducted from , 2015, 7 July- 2015, 20 August.
http://thefsteam.com/resources/calculators