TECHNOLOGY IN CLASSROOM

Assistive Technology in Classroom

Assistive Technology in Classroom

Introduction

Technology has entirely changed the face of the Earth. The world has become a knowledge economy where an effective dissemination of knowledge had become imperative for the present and future generations. This effectiveness can only be established if we deploy technology in our learning systems (Sadao & Robinson 2010). The need to make education accessible and convenient while being competitive and result-oriented; has led to the deployment of e-learning activities and modes within the mainstream educational sector.

Our youth is now utilizing internet more than ever before. Internet has been supportive to them in studies as well as in entertainment. Therefore, students now expect technology to play a strong role in learning and education. They find it easier to relate with technological learning mechanisms and attain convenience and accessibility even through distance learning opportunities. This system is not only interesting for students but also enables students to work and learn at the same time, thereby making education more flexible. Moreover, assistive technologies are helping students to enjoy their learning experience at par with their peers in classroom settings (Beard & Johnston 2011). This paper explores how assistive technology can improve the pedagogical outcomes for students, teachers and students.

Discussion

An assistive technology device is any computer product or system which makes the operation of the daily lives easier for people with disabilities. Assistive technology helps maintain or improve skills. The equipment can be purchased through catalogs or stores, or can be designed or altered for a student. An assistive technology service is any service that directly assists students with disabilities to choose, receive or use a technology device.

Blended learning is a concept that has gripped the education sector world-wide and has created positive impact on the learning process. It involves mixing different learning environments using computerized learning systems for student facilitation and pedagogical innovation. A community of learners can interact at anytime and anywhere because of the benefits that computer-mediated educational tools provide. Videoconferencing (VC) is a method of live, interactive communication, between two or more locations based locally, nationally or internationally. It involves the usage of both audio and video devices. It is a fast growing medium which has the potential to save significant amounts of money in terms of travel cost/time can open up new methods of teaching and learning and offer endless educational possibilities to the JANET (U.K. Education and Research Network) community (Olson et.al, 2000).

There are thousands of devices and solutions that enhance the ability of a student to learn, study, complete work and helping each other with family and friends. Examples of assistive technology include: amplifiers, magnifiers, a computer screen that reads aloud, programs to amplify the text, alternative computer keyboards, assistive listening systems (hearing aids, telephone amplifiers, etc, manual and electric wheelchairs, and others (Beard & Johnston 2011).

Moreover, the emerging use of Video Conferencing is of particular relevance as a new technological mechanism. It has streamlined the usefulness of technology in learning and teaching ...