Utilization of adaptive technology has been used in my life. I didn't refer to it as assistive technology due to my lack of knowledge of low-tech to high tech devices. Through my studies I have learned that we all have used adaptive technology in some shape or form throughout our lives without realizing that it was Assistive Technology. After reflecting on the events in my life where this occurred I discovered that the use of a tape recorder served as an AT device which helped me through a particular class. While pursuing my undergrad work at the University of Louisville, I took a Anthropology course in which there was a visiting professor from a foreign country. It was very difficult for me to understand his lectures. I felt that I was missing out on important pieces of information that was detrimental for my success throughout the class. I wanted to gain as much knowledge as possible from this class. Although I wasn't majoring in Anthropology, I strongly believe that every class serves a purpose, and you should be able to take something from it to use in the real world. Although I wasn't the only person unable to comprehend my professors language, I knew that I had to do something to assist me with this devistating issue. After the fifth class, I accumulated all of my lecture notes. I only had three full pages of notes in a course that didn't involve lecture using a powerpoint presentation. Talking and following a literature book consisted of the method of teaching by my professor. That's when I discussed this issue with my mother. She told me a story about when she was in college facing a similar issue. She explained to me that I should consider using a mini tape recorder to help alleviate the problem. The idea of using a mini tape recorder seemed like a great tool that would allow me to catch on to the information that was being discussed in the lectures. It wouldn't cause any distractions to my surrounding peers, and would give me a sense of motivation. The following class I sat closer to the front of the room. With the click of a button, recording was on its way. Although I still couldn't comprehend everything that was being said, I knew that once I arrived home replaying the tape recorder would serve its purpose well. As I listened cautiously, Iwas able to pick up on the information. Having the option to press rewind as many times as I need was very helpful. As I listened vigilantly, I wrote my notes with precise organization. As the class proceeded throughout the semester,I grew to appreciate the assistance of the tape recorder. When I received my final grade, unaware that the tool I was using was categorized under a mid to high-tech assistive device, I would prevail in a similar situation. I still have that same old tape recorder today. The wonderful thing that I have learned is that this small piece of equipment that I had been using all alone is referred to as Assistive Technology. Whenever I use to hear the word assistive technology I would automatically of computers or other software related to computers. Today due to the knowledge that I have obtained, I understand that AT can be on a low to high tech continuum. It can be something as simple as using play dough for a pencil grip to help students with poor fine motor skills. Even giving a student extra time to complete a test, or in my case the tape recorder can become assistive technology. What it is even more amazing is that everyday we use some form of AT, especially on the low-tech end. We are so caught up in completing a task or going about our busy live's that we never stop to think the tool we are using at the moment is assistive technology.Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Personal Reflection: The life saver tape recorder
Utilization of adaptive technology has been used in my life. I didn't refer to it as assistive technology due to my lack of knowledge of low-tech to high tech devices. Through my studies I have learned that we all have used adaptive technology in some shape or form throughout our lives without realizing that it was Assistive Technology. After reflecting on the events in my life where this occurred I discovered that the use of a tape recorder served as an AT device which helped me through a particular class. While pursuing my undergrad work at the University of Louisville, I took a Anthropology course in which there was a visiting professor from a foreign country. It was very difficult for me to understand his lectures. I felt that I was missing out on important pieces of information that was detrimental for my success throughout the class. I wanted to gain as much knowledge as possible from this class. Although I wasn't majoring in Anthropology, I strongly believe that every class serves a purpose, and you should be able to take something from it to use in the real world. Although I wasn't the only person unable to comprehend my professors language, I knew that I had to do something to assist me with this devistating issue. After the fifth class, I accumulated all of my lecture notes. I only had three full pages of notes in a course that didn't involve lecture using a powerpoint presentation. Talking and following a literature book consisted of the method of teaching by my professor. That's when I discussed this issue with my mother. She told me a story about when she was in college facing a similar issue. She explained to me that I should consider using a mini tape recorder to help alleviate the problem. The idea of using a mini tape recorder seemed like a great tool that would allow me to catch on to the information that was being discussed in the lectures. It wouldn't cause any distractions to my surrounding peers, and would give me a sense of motivation. The following class I sat closer to the front of the room. With the click of a button, recording was on its way. Although I still couldn't comprehend everything that was being said, I knew that once I arrived home replaying the tape recorder would serve its purpose well. As I listened cautiously, Iwas able to pick up on the information. Having the option to press rewind as many times as I need was very helpful. As I listened vigilantly, I wrote my notes with precise organization. As the class proceeded throughout the semester,I grew to appreciate the assistance of the tape recorder. When I received my final grade, unaware that the tool I was using was categorized under a mid to high-tech assistive device, I would prevail in a similar situation. I still have that same old tape recorder today. The wonderful thing that I have learned is that this small piece of equipment that I had been using all alone is referred to as Assistive Technology. Whenever I use to hear the word assistive technology I would automatically of computers or other software related to computers. Today due to the knowledge that I have obtained, I understand that AT can be on a low to high tech continuum. It can be something as simple as using play dough for a pencil grip to help students with poor fine motor skills. Even giving a student extra time to complete a test, or in my case the tape recorder can become assistive technology. What it is even more amazing is that everyday we use some form of AT, especially on the low-tech end. We are so caught up in completing a task or going about our busy live's that we never stop to think the tool we are using at the moment is assistive technology.
Article Review: Assessing Adult Student Reactions to Assistive Technology in writing Instruction
By: Julie Mueller, Eileen Wood, Jen Hunt, Jacqueline Specht
Ebscohost
Adult Basic Education & Literacy Journal
Year: 2009, March 1 Vol. 3 Issue 1, p.13-23
Researchers have debated that technology is a dynamic force that inspire adults to continue their education.
"They propose that technology has made adult education more accessible, has forced retraining, and has helped mold the economy in the knowledge in information age." According to Mueller, Computers are primary tools for community-based learning because they are connected to jobs and skill preparation, remediation, and lifelong learning. Although adults see computers in positive ways, there are barriers. Adults view computers as a tool that assist them with individual learning, builds self-esteem, and provides essential feedback. According to Mueller, "The barriers with computers is that there are challenging time demands, restrictive communication policies within organizations, and frustrations with the unpredictability and price of computers." Most importantly the biggest concern is receiving proper training with the use of computers. Training and technical support is a key issue in and reason for negative reactions to AT in writing. Assistive technology opens opportunities for employment, continued education and learning in order to survive in everyday life. Our society is becoming dependent on technology in many aspects. Adults who would like to go back to school, prolong it out of fear that they will have to learn the basic skills to survive as a student. The traditional way of writing by print, submitting assignments on the internet, and even researching information raises questions for individuals which becomes an intimidating factor. They also face problems with using word processors and lack of knowledge on how to check grammar and mispelled words. The issue is that some adults simply do not know how to use computers, word documents, and other software on a computer. In order to diminish these negative reactions and instead serve as a motivating tools, effective training has to be provided. Younger age students have the ability to maneuver through a computer because they are customed to the modern technology such as iphones, networking sites such as facebook and other devices. Older adults are customed to the traditional way of learning. Technology and computer classes offered as a mandatory requirement at the beginning before pursing a particular degree can be essential. It can help bring individuals out of their comfort zone of the traditional methods of learning. People will become less intimidated and become more familiar with the basics of word processors such as microsoft office. They will have the ability to learn the various navigations and how they function. Technology is growing at a rapid rate. There are new innovations that are changing the way we function in everyday life. Offering classes, and other ways to provide support for using these new innovations will help bring the fear out of adults continuing their education.
Ebscohost
Adult Basic Education & Literacy Journal
Year: 2009, March 1 Vol. 3 Issue 1, p.13-23
Researchers have debated that technology is a dynamic force that inspire adults to continue their education."They propose that technology has made adult education more accessible, has forced retraining, and has helped mold the economy in the knowledge in information age." According to Mueller, Computers are primary tools for community-based learning because they are connected to jobs and skill preparation, remediation, and lifelong learning. Although adults see computers in positive ways, there are barriers. Adults view computers as a tool that assist them with individual learning, builds self-esteem, and provides essential feedback. According to Mueller, "The barriers with computers is that there are challenging time demands, restrictive communication policies within organizations, and frustrations with the unpredictability and price of computers." Most importantly the biggest concern is receiving proper training with the use of computers. Training and technical support is a key issue in and reason for negative reactions to AT in writing. Assistive technology opens opportunities for employment, continued education and learning in order to survive in everyday life. Our society is becoming dependent on technology in many aspects. Adults who would like to go back to school, prolong it out of fear that they will have to learn the basic skills to survive as a student. The traditional way of writing by print, submitting assignments on the internet, and even researching information raises questions for individuals which becomes an intimidating factor. They also face problems with using word processors and lack of knowledge on how to check grammar and mispelled words. The issue is that some adults simply do not know how to use computers, word documents, and other software on a computer. In order to diminish these negative reactions and instead serve as a motivating tools, effective training has to be provided. Younger age students have the ability to maneuver through a computer because they are customed to the modern technology such as iphones, networking sites such as facebook and other devices. Older adults are customed to the traditional way of learning. Technology and computer classes offered as a mandatory requirement at the beginning before pursing a particular degree can be essential. It can help bring individuals out of their comfort zone of the traditional methods of learning. People will become less intimidated and become more familiar with the basics of word processors such as microsoft office. They will have the ability to learn the various navigations and how they function. Technology is growing at a rapid rate. There are new innovations that are changing the way we function in everyday life. Offering classes, and other ways to provide support for using these new innovations will help bring the fear out of adults continuing their education.
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Article Review:Impact on education, employment, and independence of individuals with disabilities
By: Norma J. Stumbo, Jay K. Martin, Brad N. Hedrick
Ebscohost
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Year: 2009, April 1 Vol. 30 Issue 2, p. 99-110
According to Stumbo, "the research questions being addressed in this article brings about three questions. How criticial is assistive technology to the achievement of individuals with disabilities in education, employment, and achieving independence? What essential needs are met by the use of assistive technology in these three areas of concern? What are the unsolved issues and questions concerning the use of AT by disabled individuals as they work toward post-secondary education, careers, and self-sufficient living"? "The U.S. is experiencing increasing rates each year for individuals with disabilities. "50% of individuals 65 years and older have some sort of disability. These individuals are experiencing the highest rates of survival ever recorded with spinal cord injury being at the top of the list." Cost and reliability are current issues concerning AT.
With these rising issues, it is vital to provide effective assistance to individuals with disabilities as they pursue post-secondary education and careers in math, science, technology, and engineering fields. Assistive technology is essential in helping these individuals have a better chance to compete in the workplace. They should be able to feel a sense of equality with the educational curriculum, and have the same accessibilty to tools as that of their non-disabled peers. They should also have the opportunity to maximize their potential in order to better their overall quality of life and become active members in society. Assistive technology on a low-tech to high-tech continnum can help individuals who have limited ability to perform certain educational and daily task. AT can provide adaptations for writing for individuals with fine poor motor contol. Portable notetakers or word processors can serve as alternatives to laptops which can be expensive, and cause affordability problems. The notetakers allow students to gain more independence in keeping up with lectures or class discussions. They provide full size-keyboards and longer batter life. AT can help provide a voice with portable devices such as Touch Talkers. They provide a computer-generated voice that can serve as assistive communication for individuals with cerebral palsy, limited speech ability, or no speech at all. This give students something that they can rely on instead of depending on others. AT helps provide and opportunity for essential needs to bet met. Limited speech ability, fine motor skills, spinal cord injury, or even visual impairment with appropriate and effective assistance of low-to high-tech devices. When these needs are met, students feel a sense of ownership and motivation which can help them achieve educational success. Students are capable of learning the same skills of their non-disabled counterparts. A scenario that addresses the AT goal for example includes a young lady who is paralyzed from the waist down. She has just completed her undergraduate degree in business with a minor in computer technology. Although her disability limits her ability to walk, she has the educational background from her course work to apply for jobs and compete against non-disabled candidates for a clerical position. This position requires an abundance of typing. Out of all of the candidates, her wpm (Words Per Minute) is the fastest out of all of the candidates. She gets the job with a competitive salary in order to support herself and grow into her independence. This is why AT serves as an equal opportunity enegizer, and answers the question of its importance to education, imployment and independence.
Ebscohost
Journal of Vocational Rehabilitation
Year: 2009, April 1 Vol. 30 Issue 2, p. 99-110
According to Stumbo, "the research questions being addressed in this article brings about three questions. How criticial is assistive technology to the achievement of individuals with disabilities in education, employment, and achieving independence? What essential needs are met by the use of assistive technology in these three areas of concern? What are the unsolved issues and questions concerning the use of AT by disabled individuals as they work toward post-secondary education, careers, and self-sufficient living"? "The U.S. is experiencing increasing rates each year for individuals with disabilities. "50% of individuals 65 years and older have some sort of disability. These individuals are experiencing the highest rates of survival ever recorded with spinal cord injury being at the top of the list." Cost and reliability are current issues concerning AT.
With these rising issues, it is vital to provide effective assistance to individuals with disabilities as they pursue post-secondary education and careers in math, science, technology, and engineering fields. Assistive technology is essential in helping these individuals have a better chance to compete in the workplace. They should be able to feel a sense of equality with the educational curriculum, and have the same accessibilty to tools as that of their non-disabled peers. They should also have the opportunity to maximize their potential in order to better their overall quality of life and become active members in society. Assistive technology on a low-tech to high-tech continnum can help individuals who have limited ability to perform certain educational and daily task. AT can provide adaptations for writing for individuals with fine poor motor contol. Portable notetakers or word processors can serve as alternatives to laptops which can be expensive, and cause affordability problems. The notetakers allow students to gain more independence in keeping up with lectures or class discussions. They provide full size-keyboards and longer batter life. AT can help provide a voice with portable devices such as Touch Talkers. They provide a computer-generated voice that can serve as assistive communication for individuals with cerebral palsy, limited speech ability, or no speech at all. This give students something that they can rely on instead of depending on others. AT helps provide and opportunity for essential needs to bet met. Limited speech ability, fine motor skills, spinal cord injury, or even visual impairment with appropriate and effective assistance of low-to high-tech devices. When these needs are met, students feel a sense of ownership and motivation which can help them achieve educational success. Students are capable of learning the same skills of their non-disabled counterparts. A scenario that addresses the AT goal for example includes a young lady who is paralyzed from the waist down. She has just completed her undergraduate degree in business with a minor in computer technology. Although her disability limits her ability to walk, she has the educational background from her course work to apply for jobs and compete against non-disabled candidates for a clerical position. This position requires an abundance of typing. Out of all of the candidates, her wpm (Words Per Minute) is the fastest out of all of the candidates. She gets the job with a competitive salary in order to support herself and grow into her independence. This is why AT serves as an equal opportunity enegizer, and answers the question of its importance to education, imployment and independence.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)