Author Archive

How Technology Can Help Students With Special Needs Learn by Amanda Winstead offers excellent advice for special education teachers and the parents of special children. Students with special needs may face a host of challenges in their daily lives, but technology can help to level the playing field in the classroom.

Introduction

• The outbreak of the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on schools and universities worldwide. To protect students, teachers, and families, physical campuses were forced to shutter their doors and take the learning remote. And, in so doing, we have learned a powerful lesson about the extraordinary power of technology in education. However, technology’s role in the classroom did not begin with the pandemic, nor will it end there. For students with special needs, technology can be a particularly important tool for learning. This article examines some of the most significant ways technology is helping students with special needs thrive.

Enhancing Communication

• For children who are nonverbal or who may have difficulty producing or processing spoken language, assistive technologies featuring text-to-speech capabilities can enable students to find a voice in the classroom.
• Similarly, technologies are available which not only offer closed captioning on class videos for students who are deaf or hearing impaired, but which can also caption words spoken in the classroom itself. And for students with visual impairments, screen readers and Braille-to-text technologies enable students to work with class materials and complete assignments with a large degree of independence.
• Through these technologies, students gain the power to communicate more freely with teachers and peers and to participate in the learning process with minimal assistance, an empowering process for children who, in all likelihood, are eager to learn and be “just like” their peers in the inclusive classroom.

Alternative Learning Activities

• Students who are neurodiverse or who may have been diagnosed with behavioral or learning challenges are likely to benefit from learning activities that are highly interactive and deeply engaging. Smartphone apps such as Kahoot, TinyTap, and Quizlet can turn dry content into a fun game, and that can mean all the difference for a student whose attention may easily wander from their textbook readings or a standard lecture.
• Computer-based interactive learning activities are also ideal for motivating students by connecting the learning material to something real, concrete and meaningful to them. For example, a student who has been diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) may be challenged with language and written text but might be exceptionally gifted in an area of science or technology.
• In such cases, an “authentic work” approach could be used to challenge the student to learn computer-based 3D modeling to create, a replica of the Parthenon or design a new type of aircraft or ship, which could then be printed on a 3D printer. This would enable the student to apply high-level mathematical and technological concepts, even as they master important lessons from history and science, and to do so in a manner that is far more relevant, accessible, and empowering to the student than traditional print-based methods might be.

Remote Learning

• Remote learning isn’t just an inevitable byproduct of the pandemic era. For many special needs students, it can be the healthiest and safest way to “be” in class. Remote learning technologies are increasingly enabling students with significant health concerns to connect in real-time with their classmates, to experience some or all of a typical day of class with their peers, without ever leaving home.
• Indeed, new “telepresence” technologies are emerging to allow students not only to see, hear, and speak in class, but also to “move around” it in the form of a physical robotic avatar the student controls remotely. While this technology is still largely in the developmental phase, it’s showing tremendous promise in simulating a “real” in-class experience, helping to break the boundaries between the home-based student and their peers and teachers on campus.
• However, telepresence is only one of the many capabilities that technology in the K-12 classroom is providing for students, families, and educators alike. In fact, as the influence of the Internet of Things (IoT) continues to increase in the connected classroom, parents, pupils, and teachers are better able than ever before to tailor the learning environment and process to students’ individual needs, while at the same time improving the efficacy of teaching practices. The IoT-infused classroom allows flexibility, enhanced communication, and more effective monitoring of students’ needs and progress, wherever the student may be. And for students with special needs, that can mean all the difference in the world for their academic success!

Improved Monitoring

• One of the most significant benefits of technology for students with special needs is that it enhances the teacher’s ability not only to monitor the student’s progress but also to engage with the student and their parents when needed. For example, software such as the Online Staff Performance Management System creates visual representations of student performance, creating digital charts and graphs that allow teachers to efficiently and accurately assess how students are faring, where they excel, and where they may need additional assistance. These graphics can also be easily shared with parents and administrators, fostering more cohesive, effective, and individualized learning support tailored to the child’s evolving needs.

Using Caution

• As profound as the benefits of technology are for students with special needs, it is critical that parents and educators alike take precautions. Educational computer games are superb for driving student motivation, engagement, and learning, but children must also be taught online safety strategies and should still be closely monitored when online.
• As an added layer of protection, parents and educators should install security software for any educational and recreational purposes, from VPNs to firewalls to anti-spy software that shields children’s data from prying eyes and, above all, insulates them from the bad actors who may be too readily found online.

The Takeaway

• Students with special needs may face a host of challenges in their daily lives, but technology can help to level the playing field in the classroom. From assistive communication to remote learning to interactive gaming, technology is a vital tool to help students with special needs harness the power and the joy of learning.

Amanda Winstead

• Amanda is a freelance writer out of Portland focusing on many topics including educational technology. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.

Share this:

How Teachers Are Keeping the Classroom Safe During Covid by Craig Middleton explains what teachers are doing to make classrooms and learning as safe as possible. After reading this check with your school to see what they are doing to maximize your child’s safety. Thanks, Craig.

Introduction

• Although the COVID-19 pandemic has not gone away, many parents are wanting their children to go back to school so that life can get back to normal to some degree. If you feel it is in the best interest of your child to return to school, but feel conflicted about sending them back while the virus is still going on, it’s important to understand that you are not alone. Learn more about the different ways that teachers are taking back the classroom and keeping students safe while ensuring they get the same quality of learning.

Sanitizing Frequently

• Many teachers are taking the time to clean before and after each class, using a sanitizing spray such as Lysol, and encouraging students to use hand sanitizer as often as necessary. Sanitizing techniques and using best practices when there is no soap and water available isn’t foolproof, but they ensure that students and the surfaces they touch are getting the chance to have access to cleaning materials on a regular basis.

Spacing as Much as Possible

• A distance of 6 feet has been suggested as a safe distance to ensure the virus doesn’t spread through talking or other types of transmission. Using spacing in classrooms can give teachers and students personal space to focus on what they are working on while ensuring that outbreaks are kept to a minimum. In classrooms where this type of spacing is not possible, many teachers are still making a point to create more distance than normal. Although this manner cannot entirely prevent contamination issues, it can help rather than doing nothing at all.

Having Smaller Classrooms

• Smaller classrooms are another way that teachers are helping to reduce the spread of COVID-19 while focusing on the needs of their students. By having a smaller classroom, it can be easier to teach and help students understand the material than trying to get several different students of various learning levels to understand what is going on. Small classrooms can make it easier to figure out where a case of the virus originated from, and in general, allow for greater control while working with the differing needs of a classroom.

Using Masks For Protection

• Although masks might not be preferred when it comes to seeing people’s faces and learning at the same time, they can help reduce the spread of COVID-19. If someone sneezes, the mask can contain the droplets that would otherwise be spread. The same goes for coughing, speaking, and other ways of accidentally transmitting germs. Masks are helpful at reducing the viral load, so students that wear them can feel safer even if they have to sit in an enclosed classroom and focus on their studies. Teachers who wear masks can set a good example for their students and help them feel as supported as possible. (Doug: Also ask your school what they have done to make sure their ventilation system is highly effective. You should also ask if they keep windows open and run classes outdoors when possible.)

Offering Blended Learning

• Blended learning involves some time in the classroom with a portion of that time being spent learning virtually or remotely at home. Many schools are offering students and parents options, such as a rugged tablet that can withstand a variety of environments. Blended learning can help students get additional time to focus on what they are studying, and it might be useful as a way for parents to remain involved in what their child is learning.

Conclusion

• Although it is understandable to have hesitation when sending your child back to school, many teachers are taking it upon themselves to make the classroom as safe as possible. Using different sanitization methods along with incorporating distance and having smaller classrooms have become common practices at many schools across the country. Many teachers and school districts are requiring masks, and blended learning has become a popular choice for students and their families alike. Although these are not fail-proof methods, they can greatly help in reducing the overall spread of COVID-19 in your community while giving your student the chance to have a normal life again.

Craig Middleton

• Craig is a New York City-based retired business consultant, who is an expert in education and cultural trends. He has a Masters of Business Administration and a Masters in Education from St. Johns and loves sharing his knowledge on the side through his writing. If you have any questions or comments you can direct them to Craig at craigmiddleton18@gmail.com.

Share this:

Playing to Learn: What to Look for in a Preschool Program by Amanda Winstead offers great advice for parents of preschool children as they try to decide which school to choose. Even if your child is already in school, you can use this article to help evaluate the one you picked or the only one available. Thanks, Amanda.

Introduction

• Most children start preschool at ages 3-4, though there’s no “perfect” age to enroll them. If you think your child is ready, the most important thing is to find a preschool that fits their needs and a place you feel comfortable with. At such a young age, your child needs to strike a healthy balance between learning and play. A good preschool will focus on both, and encourage learning through natural experiences and exploration.
• If you’re considering preschool for your child, you don’t have to stress over choosing the perfect place. When you know what to look for, you can do more thorough research on a handful of places, rather than scrambling through every location in your area. With that, let’s dive deeper into what you should look for in a preschool program, including varied learning styles and how a specific program can best benefit your little one.

Different Learning Methods

• Children learn differently. Even at a young age, your child will start to show signs of their preferred learning style. The seven standard styles of learning are: Visual, Kinesthetic, Aural, Social, Solitary, Verbal, and Logical.
• Preschool-aged children tend to be more hands-on no matter what style they prefer. Play is something that comes naturally to them. Balanced preschools will take a balanced approach to play-based learning and academic learning. What’s the difference? Play-based learning programs focus on: integrating academics into the things your child is already interested in, collaboration and social development, and Exploration and choices.
• In a play-based environment, students are typically observed by the teacher, and their progress is monitored. In more academic preschools, students might have more structured learning time, and they might even have homework at the end of the day.

You Know Your Child Best

• You know your child better than anyone. Observe what seems to come naturally to them at home. Do they tend to do better with unstructured playtime, or do they thrive with discipline and like to be focused on one task? Knowing their preferences will help you to make a better decision about the type of learning a particular preschool does.

Getting Outside the Classroom

• Both academic and play-based preschools should make an effort to change up the scenery from time to time. Young children need more than just learning time in the classroom. Getting outside should be a fairly big priority when you’re looking for a preschool program.
• Spending time outside has multiple health benefits for people of all ages. For kids, it’s a great way to learn and explore things that might not grab their attention in class. Nature is a wonderful prescription for better physical and mental health, too. About 13.4% of children ages 2-5 are considered obese. Allowing them to spend time outside can boost their physical activity and help them to maintain a healthy weight. (Doug: Don’t forget that diet is more important when it comes to weight control.)
• Nature also has positive mental health effects. It can boost energy levels, improve focus, and put you in a better mood – yes, even little ones. While preschool-aged children might not typically struggle with anxiety or depression, being outside can help with those things. For young children, it can contribute to feelings of happiness and help them to calm down. Finding a preschool that takes pride in spending time outdoors in nature play spaces is important. Outdoor learning and playing are just as beneficial as time inside the classroom. A preschool program should have a balance of both.

Inclusion and Accessibility

• We live in a diverse world. Children from all different backgrounds and children with different abilities should be able to come together in a classroom without judgment or question. That’s why inclusion and accessibility should be two key factors in your preschool decision. Maybe your child has trouble focusing or they’ve been diagnosed with ADHD. Maybe they have a disability. Or, maybe you just want them to be a part of a program that embraces diversity and accessibility.
• Whatever the case, there are more benefits to inclusion in the classroom than most people realize. Some of those notable benefits include: it tailors the teaching methods to all types of learners, it provides additional support to students, and Differences between people seem more normal, so kids can grow up embracing them.
• Everyone is entitled to their own opinion about accessibility and inclusion. But, the more parents who value such things, the better and brighter the future will be. If a preschool takes the time to let parents know they welcome everyone, you can be more confident in their efforts. Your child will learn so much simply by being around different types of children, and those are the lessons they’ll take with them for the rest of their lives.

In Conclusion

• Choosing a preschool program is a big decision, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. By keeping these things in mind and understanding your child’s needs, you can make that decision easier on yourself and feel confident in your final decision.

Amanda Winstead

• Amanda is a freelance writer out of Portland focusing on many topics including educational technology. Along with writing she enjoys traveling, reading, working out, and going to concerts. If you want to follow her writing journey, or even just say hi you can find her on Twitter.

Share this: