To be honest, technology and I have a love-hate relationship. You know how it goes; I love it when it's effective and easy. I hate it when it's time-consuming and frustrating.
My attempts at using technology with my students have been few and far between. Sure, we use laptops to access the reading curriculum, take tests and practice math facts and spelling words. Some of my students are able to create Google Docs and share their process pieces. I want to do more!
Years ago, after purchasing my iPad, I was eager to use Dragon with my students who have dysgraphia. My hope was that they could speak their answers or narratives, and copy the resulting text from the iPad to write down their thoughts. Working memory is taxed for students who must labor to accomplish the physical task of writing. Unfortunately, their speech was too poor to make use of Dragon. The iPad stayed at home after that.
Last summer I attended a workshop that was focused on using technology to help deaf or blind and deafblind students access information. The four days blew my mind! I had no idea that my iPad came with so many accessibility options built right in. It has the potential to be a much more powerful tool than I ever realized.
As a result of that class, I now have a few favorite apps that I would like to use as a way to help my students with disabilities access information, show what they know, and if possible, make my lessons even more engaging!
My Goals on this New Adventure are:
- Be fearless and brave about trying new technology that will benefit my students.
- Ask for support when I need it, so that I can be confident in my application.
- Celebrate and share the successes, while learning from the flops.
