A brighter future

Every one has the right to an equal education no matter the race, age, and ethnic background. This right also applies to those with disabilities. How you might ask? Through assistive technologies, which was made specifically for those with disabilities. Without assistive technologies, it would be difficult to try and provide the same and equal education that other students are able to receive. The clip, “EnablingDreams”, definitely portrayed just how helpful assistive technologies are for the teacher and the students as well.

            The Assistive Technology Industry Association, answers the two main questions that most people would be concerned about with assistive technologies. These two questions being, “What is it?” and “How is it funded?”. ATIT defines assistive technology as, “…[being] an item, piece of equipment, software or product system that is used to increase, maintain, or improve the functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities”. This piece of equipment can be as simple as a cardboard with fuzzy felt to act as communication board or high tech software such as computers, it all depends on the type of disability the student has. These assistive technologies are funded by various sources, again, depending on what is needed. The sources vary from, school organizations, government agencies, and private agencies as well. (ATIT)

            In the clip, “Enabling Dreams”, it displays how assistive technologies make it possible for students to be active participants in the teacher’s lesson plans. Specifically shown with the young students that were able to participate and communicate through the buttons that would say what they wanted it to. As a teacher, I would allow students to be apart of my lesson plan by getting them involved with other students in activities, for example, having other students engage and help them when needed and I would asses them with how well they respond to each activity. I have a family member who is deaf and assistive technology was extremely helpful in her case. It allowed her to communicate effectively with peers and teachers like other students were able to with their teachers.

            Jessica Millstone, editor of “Assistive technology Basics”, says that “Assistive technology can’t “cure” learning and attention issues, but it can help kids work around their challenges”. She adds that not all technologies are high tech and for the decision of what can work for a specific child can be discussed with the childs IEP or 504 plan.

            Overall, Assistive technologies can be the source towards a brighter future for children with disabilities. It will not eliminate the difficulties and obstacles but it will lessen them and allow students to be more interactive and involved in the classroom.

Work Cited

Millstone, Jessica. "Assistive Technology Basics." Understood.org. N.p., n.d. Web. 29 Oct 2016. <https://www.understood.org/en/school-learning/assistive-technology/assistive-technologies-basics>.

"What Is Assistive Technology? How Is It Funded?" - Assistive Technology Industry Association. N.p., n.d. Web. 30 Oct. 2016. <http://www.atia.org/i4a/pages/index.cfm?pageid=3859>.