ICTs  in the  Classroom

Integrating Assisitive Technologies to support learning difficulties

 

 

"Not all children learn the same way or have the same needs for successful learning experiences"

 

(Netherton & Deal, 2006)

 

This simple fact shapes the way we, as teachers, deliver information to our students. With ICTs becoming a vital skill for both academic and social success, all students, including those with learning difficulties need to be able to access these technologies (Netherton & Deal, 2006).

 

The Australian Curriculum, and Education Queensland are dedicated to providing all students with high-quality, inclusive education regardless of their circumstances. Furthermore, the Australian Curriculum specifically states that use of ICTs is a competnece whcih can be applied across all subject areas, supporting student learning (Department for Education Training and Employment, 2012).

 

The key to providing this education is differentiation. In other words, modificationscan be made to the  content, process, product and environment in order to best achieve student engagement and learning (Department for Education Training and Employment, 2012).

 

 

What is Assistive Technology (AT)?

AT is the variety of devices and services that help ensure that students with disabilities are included in a full range of social experiences and are able to function more independently, thus improving their quality of life (Batshaw, 2002)."