Week 14, Module 5

These modules gave me information about people with disabilities that I will continue to utilize, especially in how to properly help them.  Thus I feel the etiquette and awareness portion was the most beneficial and valuable.  

Though it was helpful, I would not recommend this tutorial.  I felt the "23 Things" tutorial was much more informative.  Much of the information about disabilities and assistive technology, I had acquired through an undergraduate course, one required of anyone entering the education field.  The information may have been repeated for students as well.  Additionally, there were many broken links throughout the modules that need updating.

It was asked if we plan to read any books on the LibraryThing booklist.  While I would love to, my graduate studies are taking priority, not offering much time to explore new titles, at least until I graduate.  Their compiled booklist is impressive and well thought out.

While reading Chapter 7 in the Shelly Cashman Series, I was amazed how much time is dedicated to choosing the perfect piece of software for a classroom.  I don't know how teachers have the time!  In my opinion, the best way to evaluate software or any piece of technology is by using it yourself and trying it out.  A report or suggestion can't give you the actual experience.  The chapter also addresses website evaluation.  This skilled activity requires practice in order to choose appropriate sources.  This should be practiced in grade school and continue throughout college and graduate school.  We all need reminders!

Week 13, Module 4

The discovery exercises again reminded me of something I was taught during my undergraduate studies in speech pathology, "People first."  The concept was to identify a disability as "someone with a learning disability" or a "person with cerebral palsy."  People are not defined by their disability, thus why should they be identified as so?

The video link to YouTube provided an interesting perspective.  It reminded me of the unnecessary things people do when they think they are helping someone with a disability.

I did quite well in regard to the online quiz as part of the discovery exercises.  I feel this is only due to my experience in education and within the speech pathology world.  It was interesting that they considered the term "handicapped" as inappropriate, when many establishments call accessible parking "handicapped parking."

I recently had an experience in my public library with a women with a visual impairment whom I will call "Sara."  Sara came with her mother who was aiding Sara with her 2 young twins.  She inquired about activities in the area for children.  When I found an appropriate print source, I spoke directly to Sara rather than her mother, however when it was time to give her the publication, her mother kindly took it so she could read it over as her daughter Sara could not.  I enjoy experiences such as this, as it gives me practice in how to communicate with people with disabilities.

5 Assistive Technology Websites

1. EnableMart: This is a fantastic website for a wide range of assistive technology products.
2. Tech Matrix: Another excellent website for searching assistive technology products
   
3. 4 Teachers: A web tool for teachers who are striving to teach with technology in the classroom, including assistive technology.
   
4. Internet 4 Classrooms: Another excellent source for teachers wanting to integrate technology within the classroom.  Provides seminars, even practice modules.
   
5. Assistive Technology Training Online Project: Offers tutorials, information for elementary students needing AT, tips on the decision making process for AT, and web resources for AT (list-serves, websites, projects, etc.) Great source for a teacher in an elementary classroom setting.