How tech-savvy is your high school student? He may use various devices to text, play games, listen to the latest beat, and even write school papers. But is he able to use those same devices to enhance his learning? Are you familiar with the term “assistive technology”? A formal definition states that Assistive Technology (AT) is technology that enables people with disabilities to perform tasks that were formerly difficult or impossible to accomplish. In today’s technological world, AT aids in breaking barriers, creating greater independence, and reducing the stigma of learning differently.
Personally, I am not tech-savvy, and what little I truly understand about technology, I have learned from my tech-smart husband. But one thing he has taught me to be aware of is how technology can make our lives easier. Even though I resist learning many new things, once I learn them, much of the time, I do find value in using the software program or device.
I think the same is true for many people my age, but our children are already members of the techno-society. They are more open to the opportunities that are presented by new techno-devices and software programs. Unfortunately, too often the software programs and devices that could help students with various learning disabilities are not introduced to them. Schools may not own or use them, many educators are unaware of what assistive technology is, and too often school systems will not make AT available to students with disabilities, unless educational advocates or lawyers push them. Though some teachers may introduce students to all kinds of software programs, seldom is the program taught to the point of mastery- it is up to the student to practice with it, until it becomes a regular tool. An unlikely occurrence for many students.
So hence this dilemma. There are many programs and devices that can help students who struggle with reading comprehension, note-taking, written assignments, and general study skills. Colleges offer most of these programs and devices as part of a support system for students with learning disabilities. But most students are not familiar with many of them, not having used them in high school. And unfortunately many students do not want to learn one more new skill as they enter college as freshmen. So when do students receive the opportunity to discover which AT will work best for them, have time to practice using them, and accept AT as part of their natural repertoire of learning tools?
If your child attends public school and has an IEP, he or you could start by asking for an Assistive Technology Assessment, to find out which device and/or program could work best for his needs. Even if they won’t grant him the use of any of the devices, as part of his IEP, you still have a starting point.
If your child attends a private school, he or you could inquire with the Learning Specialist about types of AT they would be willing to provide. You may be able to find a workshop that will introduce these programs and devices. Some of the more popular devices and programs worth considering may include Kurzweil Comprehensive Reading and Writing software system, Inspiration Outline Software, Smartpen recording pens, and voice-recognition and text-to-speech programs such as Dragon Naturally Speaking or Mac Dictate.
In addition to helping you find a good fit college for your child, Ruth Brodsky Consulting, LLC provides an introduction to many of these tools, as part of the company services. Check out the website at www.ruthbrodskyconsulting.com, to view all the services offered and to inquire about training in Assistive Technology.
