Download - AT in early education
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Using Assistive Technology in the Early Childhood Classroom
Kristine Jenkins
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What is Assistive Technology?
Services
Any service to the child with a disability, family or educator, that helps with selection, acquisition and use of the device.
Devices
Any equipment or software, purchased, modified or created that improves the access, functionality, understanding and participation of a child with disabilities.
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How is the need for AT determined?
Observe the child in the classroom.
Is the child having difficulty completing certain tasks or communicating?
Discuss routines and activities with parents, gather feedback.
What does the child do well?
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How is the need for AT determined?
What does the child like or dislike doing in the class, and at home?
What do the teacher and parents want the child to participate in?
Are these activities developmentally appropriate for the child?
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How much assistance does the child need?
One of the main goals is to provide an environment that is accessible to all children.
Encourage independence.
Provide support, scaffold learning, encouragement, then step back.
Observe, evaluate effectiveness, adjust, repeat.
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Categories of AT for Young Children
Adapted & Universally Designed Toys
Daily Living Aids
Communication Tools
Computer Access
Educational Aids
Mobility Aids
Sensory Aids
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Types of Assistive Technology (AT)
No TechSimple changes made to environment or equipment. “Homemade”, or created.
No cost
Low TechModest changes, more involved mechanics, “McGyver-ish” changes to equipment.
Low Cost or no cost
Medium Tech
More complicated mechanical or software modifications. May need “expert” assistance.
Modest cost
High Tech
Very advanced computer software, hardware, or digital devices. Equipment purchased from manufacturer.
High Cost
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Adapted & UD ToysDaily Living Aids
Large push button switch.
Lowered, slanted easel.
Open grip utensils
Cut out cup
Key chain zipper pull
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Communication Skills
Mobility Aids
Microphone & Amplifier
Picture Board
Communication Board
Pediatric Walker
Positioning / Mobility Chair
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Educational Aids
Computer Access
Writing prompts
Fine Motor Writing Aids
Variety of computer aidsSwivel stick mouse
Flexible touch pad
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Sensory Aids
Sensory Sit-upon
Hammock swing
Scratch & sniff book
Sand Table
Oral Stimulators
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Low Tech Assistive Technology
Many types of “no-tech” or “low-tech” assistive technologies are actually adaptations to a device, to the instructional method or to the environment.
Through creating this change or adaptation you provide the individual more ease of use, ease of participation or ease of access.
Some examples of adaptations may include:
* Adjustable height table & chairs * Non-slip seat surface
* Adjustable lighting * Pencil grip
* Pictures of objects/actions * Variety of textures
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How does AT support inclusion?
Technology can provide a bridge for students to Communicate, Participate, and Learn along with their typically developing peers.
Communicate: Through augmentative and alternative communication (AAC) devices and methods.
Participate: Through inclusive playtime.
Learn: Through adapted
curriculum and materials.
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Making it happen in your class Observe, communicate
Is there a need?
Can you create a way to meet the need?
Does it help the child participate?
Do you need information or help?
Resources
Implementation
Observe, communicate, adjust, repeat
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Resources Assistivetech.net -
www.assistivetech.net
Center for Early Literacy Learning - www.earlyliteracylearning.org
Family Center on Technology and Disability (FCTD) – www.fctd.info
SC Assistive Technology Program - www.sc.edu/scatp/index.htm
Division for Early Childhood – Special Needs - http://www.dec-sped.org/
National Assistive Technology Technology Assistance Partnership (NATTAP) - http://resnaprojects.org/nattap/
Tots-n-Tech – http://tnt.asu.edu
Frank Porter Graham Institute -http://community.fpg.unc.edu/