Technology+in+Special+Needs

Individuals with learning disabilities face numerous challenges in the general education classroom, resulting primarily from difficulties in acquiring basic skills in reading, writing, and mathematics. One major reason for applying computer-based instruction as an aid to teaching students with learning disabilities is to mitigate some of the loss of individual attention resulting from mainstreaming these students into the general education classroom (Zhang, 2000).

How can students will special needs benefit from technology tools? Students with disabilities can benefit greatly by using technology in the classroom. Children with learning disabilities often have better technology skills than their teachers and are drawn to computers and other gadgets, so using them in the classroom makes perfect sense (Zorigian & Job). There are some assistive technology tools that can help special need students in the classroom. Here are some helpful resources for teachers looking for assistive technology for their students:

This information comes from the Learn NC website.
 * **VoiceThread** is a free software program that captures student voices and photos in order to collaborate on a topic. It is a technological substitute for written papers and allows students freedom to narrate their own projects.
 * **Sounding Board** is an iPad/iPod Touch app that lets a student turn their device into a story board communicator. Students with writing disabilities and communication disorders can use the symbols to create their own messages in the same way that traditional symbol boards work, but easily and with a limitless supply of symbols.
 * **TechMatrix** offers consumer guides and links to software and assistive technology devices for students with disabilities. TechMatrix gives information and links to resources for teaching science, math, reading, and writing using technology with special education students.

Resources:

Zhang, Yuehua (2000). Technology and the Writing Skills of Students with Learning Disabilities. Journal of Research on Computing in Education. 32, (4).

Kris Zorigian and Jennifer Job. How do special education students benefit from technology? Retrieved from []