Looking for some learning activities for you or your students this summer? Do you want to know more about Assistive Technology (AT)? Do your students need practice with their computer access skills? Support both math activities and computer skills by introducing your students to fun computer games that can be operated using a touch screen or mouse. Support… Read More Boost Your AT Skills This Summer
Math Manipulatives at Your Fingertips
Math manipulatives are tools that can help students of all abilities explore and understand math concepts. As noted by Anstrom (2006), “selecting and accessing the appropriate tools and processes for students with disabilities is critical to their understanding of mathematics” (p.11). Whether concrete or virtual, manipulatives can be supportive tools for learning. Try it at… Read More Math Manipulatives at Your Fingertips
Not Only Calculators
It may not seem like it is testing season but preparing students to access state assessments is very important throughout the school year. To use an accommodation in a state testing environment, a student must have that accommodation justified and documented in their IEP or 504 Plan. It should be included in their daily instruction… Read More Not Only Calculators
Resources for Assistive Technology Teams
The Virginia Board of Education Comprehensive Plan: 2018 to 2023 includes Assistive Technology (AT) as a means to help students use technology to engage in their learning. AT teams and specialists in school districts, help teachers and IEP Teams to determine and use AT in the classroom. The start of the new school year may… Read More Resources for Assistive Technology Teams
Professional Development Modules to Increase Communication
Communication looks different for everyone. Some may communicate using words, gestures, behaviors, sounds, refusals, and more. It can be different for each learner. Analyzing the form of expressive communication your student uses, can assist educational staff in designing a communication system with and for the student (Downing, Hanreddy, & Peckham-Hardin, 2015, pp. 60-61). Project Core,… Read More Professional Development Modules to Increase Communication
Low-Tech Solutions for High-Interest Instruction
Not all assistive technology involves computers, tablets, or software. Sure, it is fun to have shiny new devices that are full of bells and whistles, but the key is to utilize items that best support the needs of a particular student. Hamm, Mistrett, and Ruffino (2006) asserted that low-tech devices are often preferable for teachers… Read More Low-Tech Solutions for High-Interest Instruction
Free Resources for Students in Virginia
A great free resource for students is Find It Virginia, which includes many links to websites that students can use for literacy, learning, and research. Free to residents of Virginia are e-books and digital resources including newspapers, magazines, and encyclopedias for elementary, middle, and high school students. Under the Elementary/Middle School tab, try Kids InfoBits for researching… Read More Free Resources for Students in Virginia