For homework on July 5th we watched videos at public.me.com/bewelsford. The videos highlighted case studyies of students using ipod touch as assistive Technology. This illustrated again the centrality of communication to the purposes behind the use of AT. Today's class gave us an overview of the evaluation process an an indepth look at communication. The key for me today came during our communication exercise. My two partners and I had to carry on a conversation with one of us acting as a nonverbal person. It became very clear to us how limited the communication can be when one has to depend on facial expressions, jestures, and body movement. The nonverbal person could not contribute much to the conversation and we could not learn much of what their message might be or who they were. Communication as a Key to changing this situation must contain the following elements:
1. Two or more communication partners
2. A shared common language
3. Joint focus and attention
I think all educators know that communication is important but putting oneself in the situation as we did today underscores the dire need for good quality Communication as a Key to entering the world of the students and having them enter ours and the learning community. Please stay tuned to this blog for links to amazing resources, a list of communication modes, many other interesting links, and unmentionable other interesting tidbits.(as I learn how.)
This blog is designed to summarize information about Assistive Technology. It is also a space for reflection on the information and key ideas that it inspires.It is also designed for my future use as a Special Needs teacher. The picture is taken from my back yard. The body of water in it is Crescent Lake which is about eight km long.
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