The Use of Technology to Bring a Classroom Together

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Inclusive ClassroomOne For All and All For One

My first article was International trends in inclusive education: the continuing challenge to teach each one and everyone, by Dianne L. Ferguson. This article discussed the beginning of inclusive classrooms and continued by comparing the different “versions” of inclusion in various schools, states, and countries. There were some very positive points about the techniques that teachers are using and their unification in teaching mentioned, as well as, some more controversial topics; such as diversity in special education and whether or not all children are having their needs met equally. Over all the author had high hopes and expectations for inclusive classrooms, and with time and practice, I believe there will be an achieved balance.

The author speaks about research that has been done to prove that even though the beginning numbers are bleak, there is a show of improvement in more current times. The concern is now on the measuring process of amount of knowledge retained for future purposes, such as, joining the work force or simply becoming a functional member of society.

Reflection

While I was concerned about the author’s tone during the article. I did see the positive outweighing the negative in the conclusion. I must admit that I am also an advocate for inclusion in the classroom as is the author. I was very impressed when the author mentioned the teaching effort in the classroom.

“In contrast, in those schools that are pursuing more systemic school improvement efforts, classrooms focused on what the teacher does are changing to emphasize students’ learning. Using a range of strategies, these classrooms and schools are making curriculum more engaging and meaningful, “personalizing” learning for each and every student, and creating communities of learners who support and share in each other’s learning.”

Technology and Social Skills

Technology Teaching Communication

Using Technology to Create Motivating Social Skills Lessons, written by Therese M. Cumming is a very interesting article describing the use of multimedia to benefit those children with social skill deficits. The article discusses the various methods of working with children to learn social skills that will help them transition into age appropriate communication, and how the use of different technologies could lead the children to a more successful lesson. The article also talks about the use of group projects involving peer support and student organization using technology to create a socially educational presentation.

The author mentions that there are many reasons that social skill course are not administered. Many teachers feel that they are not properly trained to teach the information or that the child is unwilling to participate with the provided program, but there has been some success in letting the child create there own method of gaining the skills.

ReflectionThis would be an extremely useful program that I have personally seen be attempted through some of our local schools. Lack of training was an issue, along with funding to keep trained personal available to implement the class. Negative participation was never an issue in these small examples, and the use of technologies, both video and computer programs, was very well received by the children. The author was very on target when she said,

“Adding student-generated multimedia role-plays to traditional social skills instruction may be one way to improve on and bring a proven intervention into the 21st century.”

Assistive TechnologyAdaptations Create Opportunities for Success

Assistive Technology: Supporting Learners in Inclusive Classrooms, written by Cynthia G. Simpson, Rebecca McBride, Vicky Spencer, John Lowdermilk, and Sharon Lynch was a very informative article about utilizing assistive technology devices to help children with disabilities to create successful educational experiences. The authors discuss using various technologies, such as, computers, auditory devices, speech programs and devices, and mobility and seating devices to help students perform at their best both building academics and self-esteem.

The authors talk about the importance of training on any devices by both the children and the faculty for the devices to work properly. Some of the items mentioned were for communication, existence, positioning, mobility, physical education, environmental interaction, and simply comfort. There were many different technologies in the article.

Summary

With knowledge and availability many children could benefit from the different assistive technologies that are on the market now. Many boundaries have been crossed with technology making it affordable and easily adaptable to whatever special situation may arise. A small amount of technology now could mean that a child could accomplish a more independent and fulfilling life.

“With these technologies, independence and participation within the school environment are maximized for students who need adaptations for success.”

ConclusionConnecting the PiecesOne By OneMakes Learning easierAnd Fun

Sources Ferguson, D. L. International Trends in Inclusive Education: the

Continuing Challenge to Teach Each One and Everyone. European Journal of Special Needs Education v. 24 no. 2 (May 2009).

Simpson, C. G., et. al., Assistive Technology: Supporting Learners in Inclusive Classrooms. Kappa Delta Pi Record v. 45 no. 4 (Summer 2009) p. 172-5.

Using Technology to Create Motivating Social Skills Lessons. Intervention in School and Clinic v. 45 no. 4 (March 2010) p. 242-50.