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Using the iPod in Special Needs Classrooms Part 2
Mr. Curry
As a special educator, I am proud that my program fosters independent technology use. Unfortunately, the hand-me-down computers we have been using are on their last leg. To replace these machines, we need technology that is simple to use, mobile and has plenty of educational software options.
My students are children in grades K-2 who have various disabilities. A main component of our program is working on early priority standards in reading, math and writing. We work on these skills in many different ways to support the various learning styles of my students. Through whole class, small group and independent activities, my students are able to make progress towards the learning benchmarks set by our school district, state and nation. The most difficult part of this scenario are the independent activities that my students must learn to participate in. It takes practice during those first few weeks of the school year, but by early October, my students are able to work by themselves with an interest in progress and accountability. Of course, computer use has always been a student favorite. Every child in my class has an opportunity to use this technology independently each day while I work with reading, math and writing groups.
Funding for a new bank of computers is very hard to come by. Because of this, I am forced as an educator to find an alternative that is low-cost while still meeting the needs of my students. At this time, the Apple iPod Touch and iPad meet those needs and more. Both machines provide a simple user interface that my students could quickly master and use independently. An added bonus is the touch screen technology that allows my students with fine motor difficulties to use these devices effectively. There are thousands of software titles available that focus on early learning skills. An added bonus to this is that a majority of them are free with others being very low cost. We recently had a project request for two iPods funded. We would like two more for our classroom to ensure that all students are able to use them for an adequate amount of time each day.
Students with disabilities learn at a slower pace than their peers. Many skills that others may attain in days may take weeks for my students. Repetition through many different activities is essential for their progress. Independent technology use is the most motivating way to get this additional practice. It is my belief that children with the most educational need deserve the best that we can give them, and up-to-date technology is at the forefront of that need.
My students are children in grades K-2 who have various disabilities. A main component of our program is working on early priority standards in reading, math and writing. We work on these skills in many different ways to support the various learning styles of my students. Through whole class, small group and independent activities, my students are able to make progress towards the learning benchmarks set by our school district, state and nation. The most difficult part of this scenario are the independent activities that my students must learn to participate in. It takes practice during those first few weeks of the school year, but by early October, my students are able to work by themselves with an interest in progress and accountability. Of course, computer use has always been a student favorite. Every child in my class has an opportunity to use this technology independently each day while I work with reading, math and writing groups.
Funding for a new bank of computers is very hard to come by. Because of this, I am forced as an educator to find an alternative that is low-cost while still meeting the needs of my students. At this time, the Apple iPod Touch and iPad meet those needs and more. Both machines provide a simple user interface that my students could quickly master and use independently. An added bonus is the touch screen technology that allows my students with fine motor difficulties to use these devices effectively. There are thousands of software titles available that focus on early learning skills. An added bonus to this is that a majority of them are free with others being very low cost. We recently had a project request for two iPods funded. We would like two more for our classroom to ensure that all students are able to use them for an adequate amount of time each day.
Students with disabilities learn at a slower pace than their peers. Many skills that others may attain in days may take weeks for my students. Repetition through many different activities is essential for their progress. Independent technology use is the most motivating way to get this additional practice. It is my belief that children with the most educational need deserve the best that we can give them, and up-to-date technology is at the forefront of that need.
My students need 2 iPod Touch units.
