During the last course I worked very intensely with one student with a Learning Disability. We worked together using Kurzweil, Start to Finish books and Co-writer. Over the course of the term, there were many times when the student experienced great success using the programs in the Program Support room. Unfortunately, the success did not translate into the classroom even though Individual Adaptations with these as a specific strategies were named, for whatever reason they did not occur in the classroom. The parent's of the student were quite concerned and several conversations occurred between the teacher, administration and myself. After Christmas break the issue seemed to disappear, although this student still only receives Assistive Technology support when in the Program Support room, it appears as though the parents have given up.
Today, however, a second concern was raised regarding a second student in the same classroom not receiving the outlined and necessary IA/AT supports within the classroom. Similarly, the student is using a great deal of Assistive Technology in the Program Support room with great success but is not being provided with opportunities to experience success in their own classroom. As a PST and a classroom teacher I understand the demands every teacher has, however I do not understand how it is possible for a teacher who claims to be concerned for their students to not at least attempt to provide the necessary tools for a student's success!
How can we advocate and ensure AT is used within the classrooms? Besides providing opportunities for training, what else can be done? I understand legal accountability as far as the IA goes but how do we make it as a best teaching practice instead?
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We need to train the teachers on use and application in the classroom. They need to become comfortable with the AT and understand why it has been recommended. Baby steps. You have already paved the way by having an assessment and using it in the school. The next step is implementing in the classroom. Great Denise. Let me know how the Kurzweil usb works:)
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ReplyDeleteI have come across the same issues Denise, and can't comprehend how a teacher could do this either.. I do wish all teachers had to take these two courses.. It is easier in high school because that student will say .... this teacher allows me to use Kurzweil and I am more successful with it. I love the kurzweil USB Beth and it kind of puts it in the face of the classroom. (provide earphones too)
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