First Class

During our first class, I was introduced to the terms convergent technologies, universal design for learning, presumed competency and I gained a more thorough understanding of assistive technology and how it is used in our ever changing classrooms. Before our first class, I thought of assistive technology as high tech tools, such as computers and tablets, which are used to help students take part in the learning process. I see such tools being used in the learning centres, learning disabilities, and resource classrooms I work on a regular basis and understand their importance. When asked to research the definition of assistive technology during our first class, I came to quickly alter my current understanding of assistive technology as being high tech tools and began thinking of all the tools used by teachers and students. This, of course, includes low tech tools such as hand held magnifiers and pen and pencil grips.      

The topic I found particularly interesting was around universal design for learning and the importance it has in education. Classrooms are made up of many different learners. Depending on the learning style of the student, whether the student be a visual, aural, verbal, physical, logical, interpersonal, or intrapersonal learner, or requires some sort of combination, they can benefit from a teacher who implements universal design for learning in their teaching practice. I believe that applying the four principles of universal design for learning to my own lessons, and focusing on the individual needs of the group of learners in front of me, will allow me to effectively connect with those learners. The principles of universal design for learning that I have taken from our first class include: teachers need to represent information to students in many ways, teachers must use multiple means of representation, teachers must use multiple means of engagement, and there must be multiple means of expressing knowledge. Students cannot always be expected to show their understanding for a topic using the same test or assignment. Students need to be able to express their understanding individually, using their strengths and interests. Technology can be used to assist in the learning process and help students succeed in their academic endeavors.

As we move through this course, I look forward to learning about the different forms of assistive technologies that are available and how I can use these technologies to create a more universal learning experience for my students. Resources such as the app placemat will help me select apps and tools that I can use in my own classroom practice and provide supports to my students in areas where assistive technology is required.