Hello and welcome!
As stated in the description, I am creating this blog as part of a multi-genre project for a literacy acquisition class. The focus of this project is using assistive technology to support literacy. My goals for this blog are to share what I have learned through my research and provide a place for fellow educators to share knowledge and ideas, ask questions and learn more information about assistive technology. The following is a brief introduction to my research topic.
What is assistive technology (AT)?
According to the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act of 2004, an assistive technology device is "any item, piece of equipment, or product system,
whether acquired commercially off the shelf, modified, or customized,
that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of a child with a disability." (Source: The Early Childhood Technical Assistance Center http://ectacenter.org/topics/atech/definitions.asp)
The focus of my project is how to use these devices to support literacy and enhance reading instruction for all students, not just those who are listed in a specific disability category. I also felt that it was important to include options for supporting adult literacy.
What are some examples of assistive technology for literacy?
Assistive technology for literacy can be as low-tech as a predictable text to aid in comprehension or a text with different colors and font sizes to draw attention to main ideas. More high-tech options include text-to-speech software, e-books, talking word processors and everything in between.
The bottom line? Assistive technology is any device or program that helps readers decode and comprehend written text.
Want to learn more?
Check out http://www.closingthegap.com/. It's a searchable database of AT information, including articles and live "webinars."
Also, the Technology and Media Division of the Council for Exceptional Children (TAMCEC) has a great website that includes information about professional development for educators, current articles and other resources for educators and parents. (http://www.tamcec.org/)
Up next: What assistive technology devices do I already have access to in my classroom?
