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Empower Students with Special Needs
Using Assistive Technologies to Empower  Students with Special Needs

Tools to Promote Understanding & Expression
1.Tools to Aid in Comprehension 2. Computer Technology in the Classroom 3. Test Taking
4. Communcation Tools    5.Online Resources



 

1.Tools to Aid in Comprehension

Processing Language -Link to the handouts distributed at the  13th Annual Learning Disabilities   Association of Canada Conference, Halifax, Nova Scotia, September 27-29, 2001. Discover technology tools and tips for students who  have difficulty comprehending oral language due to problems with language development, auditory processing or hearing acuity.
 


 
 
2.Computer Technology in the Classroom

Gifted and Disabled at the Same Time - Read this Case Study of a situation where technology was put to work to support a student who is both gifted as well as learning disabled. 

List at three ways Mason Birney found he could use technology to overcome his learning difficulties. Check your answers by clicking on "Open Window". 
 
 
 

 
 
3.Test Taking 
Test Taking and  Assistive Technology -Listen to the  audio clips  read from passages on Universal Design Learning from  the Center for Applied Special Technology on the challenges presented to students with learning disabilities in taking traditional paper and pencil tests.  Text Version.
After listening to these two compelling audio clips on the problems posed for learning disabled students by the traditional pencil and paper test, think of  a couple of learning disabled students in your class. Jot down some ideas for some non-traditional methods of  testing. Return to AT Index

 
 
4.Communication Tools

Sign Language - This site provides a long list of activities to learn and practice using  American Sign Language from the Kids Domain.

Getting Started with Boardmaker

Using Digital Images to Enhance Your Communication Aids
Saving Screen Shots to Boardmaker
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5.Online Resources Supporting Multiple Representation

Certain features make an online resource  flexible and accessible to  a variety of  learners.  These include  Multiple Representations of Information,  Multiple Options for Expression and Control, Multiple Options for Engagement  and ability to Customize.

Multiple Representation in a Web Environment - An Analysis of the Arthur Web Site and its ability to meet diverse learner needs. 

Toggle back and forth from the above article housed on the  CAST web site and the Arthur Web site and verify the user-friendly features described in the article.