Day Four was very interesting! We learned about low-tech assistive technology that you can create just by visiting the local Dollar Store! I was amazed at the different types of AT that were created by simple household items.
I think it is important for us to see that AT can come in any shape, size, or price range. So often we think of AT as iPads, computers, chairs, etc., but even some of the most useful things may cost pennies to create. I have not taught a student (yet) who has required a creative trip to the dollar store, but I now feel better prepared to deal with such an issue if (and when) it does arise. The checklist and website (http://www.ableplay.org/) we discussed in class are EXCELLENT resources!
My partner and I ended spending a long time at the Dollar Store searching for great ideas. There were A LOT of useful tools, but I found with my limited experience in this particular field of inclusive education, I struggled to define just what particular skill or student each device would benefit. I know I need more experience teaching students with disabilities, especially severe disabilities, to be able to more accurately "make the match" between AT device and specific need. We found ourselves saying that this "thing" would benefit a student who could not grasp properly. But more specific than that was difficult to say. Would it be a student with CP, muscular dystrophy, fine motor difficulties? In the end, I don't think it really matters what the label is but who the student is and what he/she needs to enhance/promote learning.
The next two posts are what we discovered in the Dollar Store and the toy department on DAY FOUR...
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