Assistive Technology

In the video for Assistive technology, it talks about different learning styles of students and how teachers can have a difficult time approaching their curriculum in a diverse classroom. The video talks about the term Universal Design for Learning, which is defined as "an approach to curriculum that minimizes barriers and maximizes learning for all students". Universal Design for Learning talks about three approaches; representation, action and expression, and engagement. Representation is when a teacher can present their lesson with various types of  media such as animations, making it easier on their students to understand. Action and expression is for the students to express what they know in models, feedback, and supports. The final approach is engagement which is where students indicate their interests. The article, Build An Assistive Technology Toolkit, talks about different programs available on both Mac and PC computers as well as online sources that can be used to assist different learning styles. Examples of these programs include text to speech programs for the visually impaired and on screen keyboards for those who have difficulty using a regular keyboard. I think that it is important for teachers to know what technology is available to them in order to help their students succeed while supporting their learning styles. Everyone learns differently and we have the technology to help the students, we just need to understand how to utilize these programs. This is all very good for inclusive learning and teaching especially for students with disabilities. 






Ahrens, K. (2011). Build an assistive technology toolkit. Learning & Leading with Technology, 39(3), 22-24