Using Assistive Technology

Since the advent of computers, a revolution in technology-based learning has occurred and research on computer-based adaptive learning environments has shown exemplary growth (Vandewaetere, Vandercruysse, & Clarebout, 2012). It is important for educators to modify and use supportive technology in order to keep up with the interest of today’s students. According to Vandewaetere, Vandercruysse, and Clarebout (2012), research has demonstrated that, when instruction is adapted or accommodated to learners’ skills, needs, beliefs or knowledge, learners achieve learning goals more efficiently. When students are using technology as a tool or a support for communicating with others, they are in an active role rather than the passive role of recipient of information transmitted by a teacher, textbook, or broadcast. The student is actively making choices about how to generate, obtain, manipulate, or display information.

One supportive technology I chose is Math Bingo (itunes) is an app whose object is to get a pattern of five BINGO Bugs in a row by correctly answering math problems. There are four games to choose from Addition, Subtraction, Multiplication and Division. Math problems are presented at the top of the game screen. Feedback is presented at the bottom of the game screen. Correct solutions to problems answered incorrectly will be displayed. This app can be downloaded on an iPad, iPod, or through iTunes. This technology tool is helpful for children in grades Kindergarten-2^nd. The only thing I would change is offering it in another language.

The second supportive technology I chose was ABCmouse.com. I have used this with my students and have seen great results. This site is available on the computer, IPad, IPod, or Smart Board. ABCmouse covers domains such as reading, math, and science and is culturally responsive, allowing students to create characters that look like themselves. It offers 10 levels with over 800 lessons available for students. ABCmouse can be used from Pre-k-2^nd grade.

From my own personal experience, one challenge with using technology is that it may not always work. It has been several times were our schools internet was down so students could not access the apps.

Reference

ABCmouse: Educational Games, Books, Puzzles & Songs for Kids & Toddlers. (2017). Abcmouse.com. Retrieved from https://www.abcmouse.com/

Math Bingo on the App Store. (2017). App Store. Retrieved from https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/math-bingo/id371338715?mt=8

Vandewaetere, M., Vandercruysse, S., & Clarebout, G. (2012). Learners' perceptions and illusions of adaptivity in computer-based learning environments. Educational Technology Research & Development, 60(2), 307-324. doi:10.1007/s11423-011-9225-2