Assistive Technology Module 1-1

I would approach the introduction of learning Braille in the classroom in different ways. Depending on the age group, I would use the "Braille is Beautiful" program. I would start with the Teacher's Guide and Media kits because it includes a teacher's guide book, braille alphabet cards, three books with stories about blind people, a student instruction book and workbook, a slate and stylus for embossing Braille dots, two videos and instruction guide for demonstrating how to write in Braille. I would also invite a special education teacher and current teacher of blind students to speak to the class, answer questions and share some of the tools that blind students use to learn and work. I would also like to use the opportunity to teach diversity and dispel so myths or misinformation and wrong impressions that students may have about blind students. I would like to do this before the student joins the class or in the beginning as part of a "Get to Know" each other session. I would review instructional videos such as "Instruction through Verbal Descriptions," "Encourage Hands-on Learning," " Safety in the Classroom," "Accessible Materials in the Classroom," and "Safety in the Classroom" on the National Center for Blind Youth in Science website. It would also be helpful to have other tools to show the class such as braille labeling supplies, recording and playback devices and the Kurzweil-National Federation of the Blind Reader.

When my daughter with autism first started attending general education classes the main purpose was for socialization. Her teacher and aides went to the classes to talk to the students about autism and how they could interact with my daughter and other special needs students. It was a positive experience. The students were very accepting of her and helped her whenever she needed assistance. Over time, the other students would see my daughter in other classes or at lunch and always say hello to her and even sometimes get in arguments over who would be her helper.

It is important to help other students understand and learn about differences in abilities, cultures, etc. to prepare them for a new student and some new experiences that they may be unfamiliar with. The blind student would be making preparations to join the class, I think it is important for students to be prepared as well.