February+16th+Article



National Center for Technology Innovation, and Center for Implementing Technology in Education. "On the Go: What Consumer Products Can Do For You (If You Know Where to Look!)." (2009). Web. 14 Feb. 2012. .

This article detailed how educators could utilize PDAs, mobile phones, smart phones, iPods and MP3 players. The article stated that teachers are using research that shows that "electronic and information technology can be used by students with disabilities to contribute to their independence, productivity, and participation in academics and careers." Teachers across the U.S. are incorporating mobile music players and digital recorders, like iPods, into the classroom to present students with the opportunities to podcast and direct their own radio shows, interview family members, learn phonics and vocabulary words, and record assignments. These technologies have opened a whole new world of assignment options. Some projects that would have been reserved for upper grades where the students could “handle” the challenge of making a fake radio broadcast, is now much easier and accessible to lower grades. Teachers are also using math tutoring-software for handhelds with fun titles like “Algebra at the Mall” and “Addition at the Movies.”

For the students, these pieces of technology have become a constant companion. With the applications that are available, students can use them in every class. Specifically, students with autism spectrum disorders have used iPods to load video scripts, social cues and other information to help them deal with unfamiliar social situations. There are augmented reality programs using the built-in camera and Internet capabilities of the phone that show subway information, coffee shops, and restaurants superimposed over an image of the user's current location. As the user moves, the information is automatically updated in real-time. These tools may be helpful for individuals who have difficulty with directions and unfamiliar locations.

These pieces of technology have given students whole new areas to be assessed in and ways to be assessed. With an iPod Touch, a student can touch the screen to indicate an answer, or have the question read to them. The article pointed out that students are able to be assessed in an untraditional manner, which is beneficial to all students, but especially those with disabilities or who generally have a more difficult time with traditional tests.

Again, technology is all about possibilities, and this is especially true in regard to providing scaffolding and support. In “Algebra at the Mall” and “Addition at the Movies,” the programs present the problems and guide students to correct answers. In regard to feedback, it has become instantaneous. When a student is working with a application or program on any of these devices, they are instantly told what responses are correct and incorrect. In the normal classroom, a student has to raise his hand and wait for the teacher to come to be given more support and given feedback as to whether work is right or wrong. This process can even be extended if the child must wait for homework to be graded and returned to find out.