Hardware Module 2-Exercises

EnableMart had a variety of devices that I had not heard of such as the scanner/reader. The videos about the graphic designer and the Dynavox was helpful in learning about how assistive technology has impacted each person's life. They were also helpful in seeing that people with disabilities are people first and not their disability.

I was really impressed with the content on the National Federation for the Blind website. I think the focus on helping sighted children and teachers understand the challenges of blind students. The diversity awareness program, "Braille is Beautiful" is an interactive program that engage students. Even though the website is about the blind, much of the material can be used to address other disabilities. The article by Homer Page, "Advice to Blind Student Teachers from a Professor of Education" had some important tips such as "know the skills of blindness before beginning student teaching", be fluent in braille and be assertive.

The Job Accommodation Network had great information for persons with disabilities that are looking for work, employed and employers. I liked how the information on the website was categorized by job seeker, employee, etc. and that information about the rights of people with disabilities, ADA, accommodations and guidance from the EEOC were included.

The National Center for Learning Disabilities had helpful information for teachers that is practical and specific from classroom management to the writing process. I have reviewed this site as a parent before, but looking at the site from an future educator standpoint is slightly different. As a parent, I was looking for information about improving the quality of life for my child and resources that could help me advocate for her. As a future educator, I was looking for practical strategies and accommodations for working with behavior and learning challenges for several students with individual needs.

Lots of great information, but my heading spinning from the overload.